The Influence of Money Politics on Voter Behavior During Regional Head Elections (Pilkada) in South Sulawesi Province

Money politics, the practice of distributing material incentives to sway voter decisions, has long been a challenge in Indonesian elections. This study examines the influence of money politics on voter behavior during the regional head elections in South Sulawesi. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to assess the prevalence of money politics and its impact on voting choices. The findings reveal that 61.1% of respondents were exposed to financial inducements, and lower-income voters were particularly susceptible to material rewards. The study also highlights the socio-cultural reinforcement of money politics, with local leaders playing a key role in distributing incentives and social norms of reciprocity shaping voter behavior. Despite these challenges, some voters demonstrated ethical awareness, suggesting that voter education could play a role in mitigating the impact of money politics. The study contributes to the broader literature on clientelism, emphasizing the need for both legal reforms and socio-economic changes to address the root causes of money politics. Future research could investigate the effectiveness of voter education programs and explore broader reforms to enhance electoral integrity.