George Towar Ikbal Tawakkal
Research on the meaning of elections remains limited. When the consistent victories of certain parties and the challenges faced by incumbent candidates in retaining their seats cannot be fully explained by existing theories on open electoral systems, examining voters' view on elections presents a valuable alternative. In Indonesia, which has adopted an open proportional electoral system, and in light of theoretical anomalies found in several studies, this article explores how voters view elections. Is an election primarily viewed as contests among parties or among candidates? By analyzing 400 conversations as an alternative source of public opinion, this research investigates the meaning of elections in voters' minds. Drawing on the psychological argument that speech reflects thought, the study emphasizes that the meaning of election plays a crucial role in shaping the impact of the electoral system. © 2025, Center for Asian Public Opinion Research and Collaboration Initiative. All rights reserved.
Governmental Studies Program, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya, Building A, Jl. Veteran, Malang City, Indonesia
