Poll Wars: Perceptions of Poll Credibility and Voting Behaviour

Pre-election opinion polls are an increasingly prominent aspect of political campaigns, yet they often vary in terms their results, sources, and where published. Citizens therefore confronted with the proposition which to give more credence than others shaping voting behaviour. This study investigates relationship between subjective determinations poll credibility behaviour polarised context Turkish mayoral elections. The theoretical perspective motivated reasoning is employed consider how individuals determine act upon credible mixed information environments. Using original two-step experimental approach conducted 2020, this paper establishes that while effects on party choice limited strategic considerations supporters smaller parties, can have considerable demobilising when polling environments conflicting or deemed not credible. findings produced suggestive accuracy-seeking directional motivations, implications for we think about polls, politicians, voters.