Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/223884 
Year of Publication: 
2020
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 13442
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
This is the first study to examine the effect of experiencing a widespread, deadly epidemic on voting behavior. Using data on elections to the U.S House of Representatives and leveraging cross-district variation in HIV/AIDS mortality during the period 1983-1987, we document the effects of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on votes received by Democratic and Republican candidates. Beginning with the 1994 elections, there is a strong, positive association between HIV/AIDS mortality and the vote share received by Democratic candidates. Congressional districts that bore the brunt of the HIV/AIDS epidemic also saw substantial increases in Democratic voter turnout and contributions made to Democratic candidates.
Subjects: 
HIV/AIDS
epidemic
Democratic
Republican
JEL: 
D72
I18
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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