Why Parties Gain Votes When the Public Perceives Them Shifting to the Right

We combine two dominant approaches to studying how issues influence elections: one that emphasizes parties’ issue positions, and the other ownership. Research from latter approach shows voters ascribe greater economic competence right-wing parties. Based on this finding, we argue parties enhance their ownership when perceive them shifting right. In following step, show perceived rightward shifts of also lead subsequent increases in electoral support. analyze survey data election outcomes 15 democracies over period 1986–2015 supports expectations result vote shares. right-shift gains are strongest during recessions prioritize competence.