Policy Research

Souls to the Polls: Early Voting in Florida in the Shadow of House Bill 1355

Michael C. Herron, Daniel A. Smith

Summary

This study analyzes the potential effects of tightening restrictions on early in-person voting. They find that in Florida, Democrats, minorities, and young first time voters are disproportionately likely to participate in early voting. Specifically, Democrats comprised 42% of registered voters in Florida in 2008, yet accounted for 52% of early voting ballots. Similarly, Blacks made up 13% of Florida’s electorate, yet accounted for 22% of early votes.

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Policy Implications

This study provides evidence for the assertion that restricting early voting disproportionality affects Democrats, minorities, and young voters. Specifically, the results suggest that restrictions to early in-person voting on Sundays would most disproportionately harm Democratic voters.