2020 election research waves

Introduction

Cause and Social Influence tracks the behaviors of and influences on young Americans (age 18-30) related to social issues and major moments. We’ve studied two major moments in 2020: the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election. Here, we present the findings of our research on social actions and issues surrounding the election.

Research Protocol

For the first phase of research, Cause and Social Influence initiative researchers took a quantitative approach with an online survey fielded Oct. 3-4, 2020, of 1,011 young Americans (ages 18-30) – a nationally representative sample based on census-projected ethnic and demographic composition. With this response rate, the data presented has a 95% confidence interval and a 3% margin of error. 

For the second phase, researchers took a quantitative approach with an online survey fielded from 8 to 11:30 a.m. EST on Nov. 4, one day after the election, of 1,018 young Americans － a nationally representative sample based on census-projected ethnic and demographic composition. Results represent behaviors by and influences on young Americans in the 30 days leading up to Nov. 3 and on Election Day itself. With this response rate, the data presented has a 95% confidence interval and a 3% margin of error.