The Internet and political participation: the effect of Internet use on voter turnout

This study investigates the effect of the Internet on political participation, specifically if Internet use is associated with increased likelihood of voter turnout and campaign donating. There are well documented socio-economic and psychological determinants of political participation, but there is also some evidence to suggest that improvements in methods of information distribution and communication can boost participation rates. This study uses data from the 2004 presidential election to help understand the connection between Internet technology and political participation. It uses logit models and finds that access to the Internet was associated with higher rates of both voting and donating to political campaigns. The Internet has played an increasingly important role in the political landscape of the United States. By lowering information and communication costs this study shows that it can be a factor in boosting political participation.