This study examines how initiatives affect state public policy congruence.

Using Erikson et al.'s opinion liberalism model expanded by Gray et al.,

the research explores the interaction between public opinion, organized interests,

and direct democracy mechanisms across U.S. states.

🔍 Data & Methods

We analyze variance in predictors of state policy liberalism using multiple models

while distinguishing between initiative and non-initiative states.

📊 Findings

Our results indicate that initiatives do not fundamentally alter the congruence

between public opinion and state policies, contrary to some theoretical expectations.

💡 Implications

These findings suggest direct democracy mechanisms may not significantly change

the relationship between citizen preferences and policy outcomes in U.S. states.