From Selective Exposure to Mobilization: Partisan Media, Polarization, and Voting Behaviors

ABSTRACT Objective This article aims to extend our understanding of relationships among partisan selective exposure, polarization, and voting behavior. Specifically, this research deals with the different types of polarization (affective polarization and perceived polarization) and electoral participation (turnout, vote choice, and lateness of decision). Methods A series of path analyses were performed using the American National Election Survey (ANES) 2020. Results The results show that pro‐attitudinal media use is positively associated with affective polarization, while counter‐attitudinal media use is negatively associated with affective polarization. In addition, people with an exaggerated perception of polarization are likely to experience greater affective polarization. Both affective polarization and perceived polarization are positively associated with turnout, while only heightened affective polarization shortens the time it takes to decide who to vote for. Conclusion Affective polarization and perceived polarization, amplified or dampened by partisan media use, are distinctly related to different forms of voting behaviors. This finding calls for a more nuanced approach to explain partisan audiences and their political participation in a fragmented era.