Does Time of Voting Affect Exit Poll Results?

Abstract

This study analyzes time of voting effects on the results of exit poll data collected in a Cleveland municipal tax referendum. The data reveal significant differences both in the times different groups vote and in the reported levels of support for the tax levy by time of day. The temporal variation in the reported levels of support for the tax levy are then shown to be directly related to the times when different support groups cast their ballots. Collectively, these findings suggest the need for day-long interviewing in the design of exit polls.