UiS School of Business and Law Seminar – Econ & Finance. Guest: Alexander James, University of Wyoming
Alexander James, University of Wyoming
Unconditional Cash Transfers & Voter Turnout
April 2nd, 12:15–13:15 EOJ 276/277 or join on Zoom

Abstract:
We estimate the effect of unconditional cash transfers on voter turnout, leveraging a large-scale natural experiment, the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program, which has provided residents with a check of varying size 1 month before election day since 1982. We find that larger transfers cause people to vote, especially in gubernatorial elections in which a 10% increase in cash ($190) causes a 1.4 percentage point increase in turnout. Effects are concentrated among the young and poor. Survey data suggests the mechanism is reduced voter apathy. Implications are discussed.