How COVID-19 is Impacting Election Cycles
It’s no secret that COVID-19 has upended life as we know it. In addition to the devastating human toll, the pandemic has also had a major impact on the economy, education, and—you guessed it—the election cycle. Researchers are starting to find that COVID-19 increases activity closer to election cycles. While actual data is difficult to correlate a biological reason for the uptick in cases. We notice that there is a natural uptick in media coverage of COVID-19 spikes right before the elections. Fortunately, many states have allowed lenient mail-in voting.
Joe Biden has claimed that the pandemic is over; however, now that we are in the midst of an election year, we are seeing major spiking of COVID-19. Here in the United States, we will be conducting mid-term elections in November. In such a time of turmoil and uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to make sure your voice is heard.
Unfortunately, voting in person this year comes with a whole host of risks. With COVID-19 still raging across the country, many people are understandably hesitant to head to their polling place on election day. There is reports that COVID-19 is spiking in Europe. If this spike were to make it to the United States, could it impact the election? Luckily, many states want to offer early voting or mail-in ballots as options for those who prefer not to vote in person.
COVID Spikes Right Before Elections
Interestingly enough, there seems to be a correlation between COVID-19 spikes and election cycles. Researchers, along with individuals, are starting to find that COVID-19 increases activity closer to election cycles. While actual data is difficult to correlate a biological reason for the uptick in cases. We notice that there is a natural uptick in media coverage of COVID-19 spikes right before elections.
For example, right before Super Tuesday primaries this past March, there was a significant spike in news coverage of the coronavirus. We think this spike in coverage may have led many Americans to believe that the virus was much more widespread than it was. It is possible that the number of new cases being reported was actually relatively lower. However, the constant coverage created a sense of panic among many Americans.
The same thing happened leading up to the presidential election in 2020. There was a significant spike in news coverage of COVID-19 right before Americans headed to the polls. While COVID-19 Virus is a serious concern, especially for older Americans.
The COVID-19 histeria has also impacted campaigns themselves, in 2020 many candidates opted to limit in-person events and instead focus on digital campaigning via social media and virtual town halls. This shift has leveled the playing field somewhat, as candidates who may not have had the resources for traditional campaigning strategies can now reach voters online. This was also helpful for unpopular candidates. However, it remains to be seen whether this will be enough to offset the impact of the virus on turnout and overall election results.
Is it important to stay informed during these times of upheaval and uncertainty? However, it’s also important to take everything you see and hear with a grain of salt. The media tends to sensationalize things, especially during election season. So remember to do your own research and form your own opinion before heading to the polls this November.