This article examines the relationship between candidate visits and campaign donations during the turbulent 2016 US Presidential Election. Using original survey data collected from voters across battleground states, we analyze how face-to-face interactions influenced donation behavior.
Key Findings
- Incumbent-focused debates increase donor interest among supporters
- Candidate proximity drives spontaneous fundraising activities
- Digital engagement fails to replicate the financial impact of physical presence
Methodology
Our mixed-methods approach combines quantitative regression analysis with qualitative follow-up interviews.
This research provides crucial insights into effective campaign finance strategies, revealing that traditional in-person canvassing remains a powerful tool despite digital advances.
