How Elections and Political Power Affect Health: A State-by-State Look

Ever wondered how politics can impact your health? A recent study explored this connection by examining health outcomes across US states from 2012 to 2024. They looked at eight different health markers, like infant mortality and vaccination rates, and linked them to four political factors: the ideology of elected representatives, control over state branches, enacted policies, and voter leanings. Interestingly, states with more conservative political environments often had worse health outcomes. For instance, in 2016, states with a Republican trifecta (where one party controls both the executive and legislative branches) saw higher rates of premature deaths compared to those with a Democratic trifecta. Over time, these gaps widened. This research suggests that elections and political power do play a role in shaping public health.