Does representation by a co-ethnic or co-racial candidate increase minority voter participation? This question has long been debated in the literature on political engagement. Previous studies produced conflicting results regarding whether exposure to minority candidates significantly raises turnout among their own group. However, this research argues that prior findings may have overlooked crucial differences between minority voters who encounter such candidates and those who do not.

Data & Methods: We designed a novel approach leveraging redistricting processes to isolate the causal impact of candidate ethnicity on voting behavior.

Key Findings: Our analysis finds little evidence that African American voter turnout increases when they are represented by African American candidates. Conversely, we discover some indication that white voters tend toward lower election participation rates under such representation.

Why It Matters: These nuanced findings suggest past work failed to fully account for contextual differences in how minority and majority populations respond differently to diverse political representation.