Michael Cohen


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Dissertation

"Behavioral Expectations, Voter Perceptions and Regional Parties"

Abstract: When do regional parties achieve electoral success? Previous explanations for the formation of viable and successful regional parties typically center on structural factors like social cleavages or economic differences or institutions. However often times regional party success ebbs and flows while structural factors remain constant. What explains this variation? Based on a combination of survey data, field research and case studies I analyze the impact perceptions and behavioral expectations have on vote choice for regional parties. Policies, particularly patronage, impact the formation and success of regional parties. However this impact is contingent on if regional parties are able differentiate themselves from national parties.

Committee: (Chair) Marcus Kurtz, Richard Gunther, Irfan Nooruddin, and Craig Volden

Working Papers

"Behavioral Expectations, Voter Perceptions and Regional Parties: The Paradox of the Lega Nord" (under review)

“Experimenting With Welfare Reform: Emulating Success, Cutting Costs or Racing to the Bottom?” (with Craig Volden)

"Oil, Federalism and Stability" (with Ryan Kennedy)