The Design of Direct Democracy

• In Event: Designing Inequality Through Federalism? The Role of Policy Framing & Design for Inequalities in Access and Participation

Abstract

Recall elections are a powerful tool of direct democracy, when exercised effectively. While historically rare, the U.S. has seen a surge of recall attempts and legislative proposals to change state-set recall policy in recent years. Despite its growing salience, recall and related democratic outcomes remain understudied, and recall frequency and success vary considerably across the country. Policy design theory highlights how rules distribute opportunities and constraints, and recall is an important case for examining the link between political institutions and participation. This study draws on theories of policy design to examine the question: How does recall policy design impact participation and success in the recall process? Using an original dataset of state recall policies linked to recall attempts for local offices in the U.S. from 2009 to 2024, the analysis provides new insight into how institutional design influences the efficacy of direct democracy. As recall continues to rise in popularity as a political tool and policymakers debate reforms, it is essential to understand the democratic implications of recall policy design.

Author

• Celine Gina Kim, University of Texas at Austin
  Presenting Author