Who is included in the study?

The study includes all candidates running for state legislative office in the 2018 primary and general elections in all 50 U.S. states — both incumbents and challengers, and all candidates regardless of their party affiliation. The study includes two surveys: one during the primary election and one during the general election.

How are the surveys administered?

The surveys are administered online using the online survey software, Qualtrics. Potential survey participants are invited to participate via a personalized email with a link to take the survey online.

Who will see my answers?

All of your responses and your decision to participate in the study will be anonymous: no information that could identify a candidate will ever be made public.

Only the researchers involved in this study and those responsible for research oversight will have access to the information you provide.  Your responses will be numbered and the code linking your number with any personal identifying information about you will be stored in a securely encrypted, password protected file.

We will only publish aggregate results, such as the average response to a question, and we will never share information that could identify any individual respondent.

How long is the survey?

The general election survey is designed to take about 10 minutes.

What kind of questions does the survey ask?

The surveys ask about candidates’ experiences and perceptions both before and while running for office, as well as candidates’ views on a range of issues. You are free to decline to participate, to end participation at any time for any reason, or to refuse to answer any individual question.

How will the results be used?

The results of the surveys will be analyzed and aggregate level results will be reported. Findings from the surveys will be used for academic research, intended for publication in peer-reviewed academic journals.

How can I get more information about the survey?

If you have further questions, please contact us at candidatesurvey@yale.edu.