This study examines the relationship between voter-candidate ideological alignment and electoral outcomes in US House races.

What We Know

The traditional view suggests that greater ideological similarity between candidates and voters encourages turnout.

Our Findings

• We analyze voter behavior across multiple election cycles using nationally representative survey data
• Election results from battleground districts in 2016-2020
• A novel measure of ideological distance between candidates and voters

Contrary to expectations, greater alignment is associated with lower voter turnout.

Why This Matters

This finding challenges conventional wisdom about electoral motivation. It suggests that factors beyond simple policy matching influence voting decisions in US elections.