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Do Politics or Mayors' Demographics Matter for Municipal Revenue Expansion?

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  • Claudia N. Avellaneda

Abstract

This study examines whether political factors and mayors' demographics influence municipal success in expanding revenue. Data from forty Colombian municipalities over a 7-year period (1999--2005) are used to explore the relationship between mayoral demographics (age, sectorial experience and education level and type) and revenue expansion through state and national grants. Results reveal that the factors affecting approval of state grants differ from those influencing approval of national grants. When a mayor's political party is aligned with that of the governor, municipalities tend to secure more state, but not national, grants. Municipal features, such as population, local revenues and divided government, positively influence national, but not state grants. Not surprisingly, the stressful municipal context (presence of illegally armed guerrillas) negatively moderates the impact of mayors' demographics on approval of grants. If obtaining greater revenues implies greater social investment, this study suggests the importance of candidates' backgrounds when electing mayors, at least in the Colombian context.

Suggested Citation

  • Claudia N. Avellaneda, 2012. "Do Politics or Mayors' Demographics Matter for Municipal Revenue Expansion?," Public Management Review, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 14(8), pages 1061-1086, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:pubmgr:v:14:y:2012:i:8:p:1061-1086
    DOI: 10.1080/14719037.2012.662442
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Assar Lindbeck & Jörgen Weibull, 1987. "Balanced-budget redistribution as the outcome of political competition," Public Choice, Springer, vol. 52(3), pages 273-297, January.
    2. Brollo, Fernanda & Nannicini, Tommaso, 2012. "Tying Your Enemy's Hands in Close Races: The Politics of Federal Transfers in Brazil," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 106(4), pages 742-761, November.
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