The median voter data set: voter preferences across 50 democracies

Abstract

This research note presents a median voter data set that allows for comparison across time and across countries. The data set updates and extends the widely used statistics originally developed by [Kim and Fording, 1998] and [Kim and Fording, 2003] . The median voter data introduced in this research note also correct for stochastic error in the Comparative Manifestos Project using work by Benoit et al., 2009 K. Benoit, M. Laver and S. Mikhaylov, Treating words as data with error: uncertainty in Text statements of policy positions. American Journal of Political Science, 53 2 (2009). Benoit et al. (2009) and include estimates of measurement error. The methodology consists of linking party positions with electoral outcomes to arrive at revealed voter preferences. This data set provides insight into the median voter in over 50 democracies. For established democracies the time series typically starts around 1950. The United States time series begins in 1920 and includes the 2008 election. Descriptive graphs illustrate major trends in voter preferences. The median voter data set is made available online