This study demonstrates how increased connectivity eroded local media resources, leading to more partisan electorates. Consequently, US legislators shifted towards prioritizing national interests over constituency concerns—a move traditionally viewed as politically risky.
Data & Methods:
Using data on broadband rollout timing linked to the 2002 redistricting reforms that increased information access for members. This allowed us to track legislative behavior changes during the subsequent congressional sessions (108th-111th).
Key Findings:
We found legislators in more connected districts significantly voted:
- More aligned with their party's stance.
- Increased correlation with presidential preferences.
- Stronger endorsements of interest groups, despite potential local unpopularity.
These patterns held even when examining individual members' voting consistency changes over time.
Why It Matters:
Our empirical evidence strongly suggests that the expansion of high-information environments is a major driver behind the growing nationalization of US politics. This challenges traditional views linking information access directly to accountability concerns.
