2023 Volume 74 Issue 1 Pages 1_297-1_319
This study examined the causal effects of conveniently located early voting stations on voter turnout. Although previous studies have examined the relationship between the number of early voting stations and voter turnout, the location of early voting stations has not been fully considered in Japan. This study thus focused on the temporary early voting stations that were set up for a local referendum in Osaka City in November 2020. This study uses the generalized synthetic control method to estimate the causal effect of the stations located in convenient places on voter turnout. The results of this study indicate that the temporary early voting stations in the Osaka City referendum significantly increase voter turnout in the ward, even when the stations are set up for only a day. This study provides new insights into the causal relationship between early voting stations and voter turnout, and suggests important practical implications.