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The Impact of Ballot Type on Voter Errors

Author

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  • Paul S. Herrnson
  • Michael J. Hanmer
  • Richard G. Niemi

Abstract

Studies of ballots have traditionally focused on roll‐off, candidate order, and partisan advantage. This study is among the first to assess the impact of ballots on individual‐level voter errors. We develop new hypotheses by bringing together theoretical insights from usability research and political science about the effects of ballots with and without a straight‐party voting option. By comparing voters’ intentions to the votes they cast, we are able to create two measures of voter errors: votes unintentionally cast for the wrong candidate and unintentional undervotes. Voters generally make fewer errors of both types when using a standard office‐bloc ballot than when using an office‐bloc ballot with a straight‐party option, with the number of wrong‐candidate errors substantially exceeding the number of unintentional undervotes. Voters’ background characteristics have a significant impact on their ability to vote without error. Our results offer a new perspective for evaluating the use of the straight‐party option.

Suggested Citation

  • Paul S. Herrnson & Michael J. Hanmer & Richard G. Niemi, 2012. "The Impact of Ballot Type on Voter Errors," American Journal of Political Science, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 56(3), pages 716-730, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:amposc:v:56:y:2012:i:3:p:716-730
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-5907.2011.00579.x
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    Cited by:

    1. Leopoldo Fergusson & Juan Felipe Riaño & B.K. Song, 2020. "Media, Secret Ballot and Democratization in the US," Documentos de Trabajo 18252, The Latin American and Caribbean Economic Association (LACEA).
    2. J. S. Maloy & Matthew Ward, 2021. "The Impact of Input Rules and Ballot Options on Voting Error: An Experimental Analysis," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 9(2), pages 306-318.

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