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Reelected mayors and local fiscal policy outcomes. Are incumbent mayors more competent compared to newly elected ones?

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  • Joanna Siwińska-Gorzelak
  • Grazyna Bukowska

Abstract

This paper investigates whether the tenure in the mayoral office influences local fiscal policy. Utilizing data from Polish municipalities and employing a Regression Discontinuity Design focusing on close local elections, we identify the non-linear effects of a mayor’s tenure on fiscal outcomes. Our findings reveal that fiscal policies conducted by highly experienced mayors serving a third or higher term are associated with increased investment spending, higher levels of EU funding, and higher fiscal balances compared to policy of newly elected mayors. Notably, this effect is not observed among less experienced incumbent mayors serving their second term.

Suggested Citation

  • Joanna Siwińska-Gorzelak & Grazyna Bukowska, 2026. "Reelected mayors and local fiscal policy outcomes. Are incumbent mayors more competent compared to newly elected ones?," Local Government Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 52(2), pages 292-312, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:flgsxx:v:52:y:2026:i:2:p:292-312
    DOI: 10.1080/03003930.2025.2518555
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