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Abstract

Previous studies suggest that vice presidential candidates have little impact on the presidential vote. Using data from the 2008 National Annenberg Election Survey (NAES), the author examines the extent to which the vice presidential selections from the two major parties had an impact on the presidential vote in 2008. The results show that vice presidential nominees’ favorability ratings were significantly related to vote preference. In addition, the results show that the contributions of the vice presidential nominee ratings on vote choice varied across the campaign, suggesting that campaign events primed the importance of the vice presidential candidates at different moments. Ultimately, Governor Sarah Palin did not help the Republican ticket.

Keywords

Sarah Palin Joe Biden the Palin effect vice presidential candidates vice presidential nominees vote preference

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The Palin Effect and Vote Preference in the 2008 Presidential Election

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