This paper examines direct democracy institutions to reveal their disparate effects on citizens' political support.

Data & Methods: Analysis of survey data and policy outcomes from Swiss cantons known for extensive direct democratic tools.

Key Findings: While direct democracy increases overall participation, it disproportionately strengthens the electoral position of incumbents with slight advantages. This uneven distribution suggests that direct democracy may exacerbate rather than mitigate inequalities in political influence.

Why It Matters: The findings challenge assumptions about direct democracy enhancing equality and instead suggest potential reinforcement effects for already advantaged politicians.