Resumen

FIGUEROA-MAGANA, Jorge Enrique. Regional Identity and Electoral Behavior: A Case Study of the PAN Party in Yucatán. LiminaR [online]. 2013, vol.11, n.1, pp.134-153. ISSN 2007-8900.

The region is one of the most important variables to understand Mexican political behavior. However, little is known about how region shapes voting behavior and what mechanisms are involved in the "regional effects". Using data collected through a large scale survey, this article empirically examines one mechanism, the role of a Yucatecan regional culture in fostering opposition voting for the National Action Party (PAN) in the Mexican state of Yucatan. Two models are tested: the cultural awareness model of PAN loyalty, and a policy effects model of PAN loyalty. The data analysis revealed little evidence for the first model, but considerable support for the policy effects model, particularly among the highly educated. Thus, the traditional regional culture appears to be a factor in explaining why Yucatecans, even the more deprived, support the conservative PAN.

Palabras llave : political behavior; identity; panista vote; cultural awareness model; policy effects model.