Follower Expectations Regarding the Functions of Smiles During the 2024 Presidential Election Reflect Political Identity

Abstract

Smiles are not monolithic behaviors; they function in multiple ways by signaling affiliative intent, in turn lubricating the social interactions that provide the basis for group formation and maintenance. While smiles may be characterized by the muscles involved, how strongly they are contracted, and their timing, context influences both the likelihood of specific types of smiles occurring and how they are interpreted while serving the social functions of broadening-and-building coalitions and maintaining-and-managing hierarchies. To better understand the relationship between political followers and their leaders in the United States, we consider the relationship between presidential vote intent, political identity, and political ideology and the expected rationale for smiles (enhancing social bonding or managing social hierarchies) using a nationally representative survey of 1,385 U.S. residents. Findings suggest there are distinct differences in candidate voter preferences regarding smiles based upon political identity.