Research on Public Opinion and Party Politics

This project examines the July 2007 House of Councillors election through an ongoing survey in which the same respondents provide input over a series of survey periods. Through numerous Internet-based surveys, this project has produced a different set of data than media organs’ opinion surveys, tracking a defined group of voters and quantitatively analyzing their voting patterns and factors. This method is particularly effective in analysis of the fluid choices made by unaffiliated voters. The project also watches the political scene following elections, investigating how elected officials tackle policy and the role of party politics in the formation of policy.