Unmasking geographic polarization and clustering: A micro-scalar analysis of partisan voting behavior

摘要: Abstract “Geographic polarization”, the spatial concentration of “like” voting behavior, is a phenomenon closely related to “partisan intensification diametrically ideological positions, understudied, and critical understanding current American electoral behavior. To date, few studies have examined geographic polarization, those that do done so at scales regions, states, counties. However, local influences operating within areas smaller than counties influence behavior can produce polarization. address these scalar methodological shortcomings, this research focuses on smallest political units, precincts, using case study Greater Cincinnati Metropolitan Area. Presidential election data from 1976 through 2008 were collected by analyzed statistics, mapped examine evolving polarization over 32-year period. The results measured precinct-scale, suggest an increased partisan emphasize residential pattern