In the US, the larger culture wars can closely mirror the partisan polarization between Democrats and Republicans (or liberals and conservatives). Discussions at the school district level about curricula and textbooks can reflect national partisan divisions, with real-world ramifications for teachers, students, and communities. These polarized debates may resonate most strongly in school districts with different partisan leanings than their surrounding state environments (e.g., Democratic districts in Republican states). In these mismatched partisan environments, partisan polarization may energize civic engagement.
In our study, we argue that in these mismatched partisan environments, polarization may energize political participation at the local level. How do voters react when they believe their values are being challenged or ignored? We argue that voter turnout in those districts will increase, as those who can vote will be more likely to do so. Elections for school boards traditionally attract very low turnout, but mismatched school districts may be ground zero for partisan debates over polarized issues.
To conduct this investigation, we use information on voter participation in school board elections, available in voter file records to which we have access from Murmuration Research Institute, Inc., as well as census data.