types of polling

benchmark polls

• Designed to “test the waters” for new people running/ Designed to see how people view the candidate and if they know them

• Additionally, addresses how people view given issues

• Helps individuals alter their campaigns to fit the public’s view better

tracking polls

Polls conducted over time to monitor changes in public opinion regarding a candidate or issue, typically used during a campaign.

approval ratings

Measurements of public support for a political figure or policy, often expressed as a percentage. They indicate how favorably the public views the individual or issue.

entrance polls

Polls conducted at polling places on Election Day to gauge voter sentiment and behavior as they enter the voting booth.

exit polls

Polls conducted immediately after voters have cast their ballots, used to predict election outcomes and understand voter behavior.

push polls

Polls designed to influence respondents' opinions under the guise of gathering information, often using leading questions.

bandwagon effect

A psychological phenomenon where individuals adopt certain behaviors or opinions because they perceive that others are doing the same, often influencing voter decisions.

bradley effect

A phenomenon where voters may provide false information about their preferences, often due to social pressures or racial biases, leading to discrepancies between poll results and actual election outcomes.