Dynamics and Influences: Local and National Politics in Khon Kaen Province's House of Representatives Elections, District 3

Abstract

This study offers a nuanced exploration of the interplay between national and local political dynamics in Thailand, with a particular focus on Electoral District 3 of Khon Kaen Province. It delves into the complex political environment surrounding the pivotal elections of May 14, 2023, utilizing a Mixed Methods approach to integrate both quantitative and qualitative insights from a stratified sample of 400 voters. At the core of this investigation is a robust regression analysis that rigorously quantifies the impact of various determinants on electoral outcomes. The analysis reveals that policy preferences overwhelmingly influence voter behavior, significantly more than other variables such as political campaigns or party affiliations. This suggests a discerning electorate that prioritizes substantive policy over traditional factors such as campaign dynamics or party loyalty. Additionally, factors like voter engagement and campaign strategies, though less influential, still play notable roles in shaping electoral decisions. This comprehensive study advances our understanding of Thai electoral politics by illustrating how national reforms and local characteristics converge to influence voter decisions in an evolving democratic landscape. It challenges existing political science paradigms and offers critical insights into the efficacy of electoral strategies and the maturation of democratic processes in Thailand.