The Impact of Incidental Environmental Factors on Vote Choice: Wind Speed is Related to More Prevention-Focused Voting

Abstract How might irrelevant events infiltrate voting decisions? The current research introduces a new mechanism—regulatory focus—by which incidental environmental factors can affect vote choice. Regulatory focus theory proposes that there are two fundamental psychological orientations in how people navigate their worlds: A prevention tunes cognition towards security, safety, protection, and risk aversion, whereas promotion orients attention toward achieving growth positive outcomes. We present model for wind speed on Election Day affects by shifting the regulatory of voters. propose increased shifts voters selecting prevention-focused options (e.g., restricting immigration, rejecting Brexit, Scottish Independence) over promotion-focused promoting favoring Independence). further argue only when an election clearly offers choice between options. Using mixed-method approach—archival analyses “Brexit” vote, Scotland independence referendum, 10 years Swiss referendums, as well one field study experiment—we find individuals exposed to higher speeds become more likely support electoral findings highlight political importance factors. Practically, they speak benefit absentee expanding periods beyond traditional days.