Macrogeographical Versus Microgeographical Cleavages in Contemporary Texas Politics

This study compares the importance of macrogeographical cleavages (i.e. differences across historical sub-regions) and microgeographical cleavages (e.g. differences across population density categories) to the contemporary electoral landscape of Texas. Results from statewide contests since 1994 will be used to show that the importance of macrogeographical cleavages is diminishing while the importance of microgeographical cleavages is growing. Additionally, results from the University of Texas/Texas Tribune statewide poll will be used to show how population density increasingly accounts for important differences in partisan identification, political ideology, and public opinion in Texas