Does winning political office enhance or diminish life expectancy? Political science literature offers conflicting views. One perspective suggests that higher income, status, and connections boost longevity among elected officials. Another highlights increased stress and demanding work hours as harmful factors.
To resolve this debate, researchers analyzed unique data on US gubernatorial candidates' health outcomes. Using a regression discontinuity design — comparing election winners with very close losers — they found politicians who win live significantly longer after taking office than those who lose by narrow margins.
Key Findings
Winning the gubernatorial race was associated with living 5-10 years longer compared to losing candidates, despite similar pre-election health indicators. This longevity effect appears concentrated among elected officials during their first term or beyond.
Why It Matters
The results suggest that positive factors gained from election victory may outweigh negative ones for many politicians' lives post-office. The findings highlight the complex interplay between stress and benefits in political careers.
