Changes in Attitudes: Nothing Remains Quite the Same with Opinions on Absentee Voting

Absentee ballots preserve the ability of voters to participate in elections in the event they are unable to vote in person. Texas has used absentee voting for over 95 years, however the law requires an excuse must be given for why an accommodation is necessary. Using a survey experiment from a statewide survey, I breakdown how the threat of contracting a disease is likely to alter voter behavior. The results show that population density and recognition of a public health threat provide additional marginal effects beyond difference of opinion by party. When all voters face a public health crisis, like the coronavirus pandemic, voters are more likely to consider voter convenience in their interest for fair and legitimate elections.