Publication Type: Proceeding
Abstract: Why is Mexican politics divided between conservative, northern “blue” states and left-learning, southern “yellow” states? While factors such as the regional concentration of wealth and urbanization certainly contribute, I suggest that political discussion plays an important role in reinforcing regional differences. Mexico’s regional cleavage limits the supply of differently-minded conversation partners in a voter’s immediate social environment, thus making it less likely that s/he will hear arguments sympathetic to an opposing side.