Using data from the American National Election Studies from 1968 to 2016, I explore the historical relationship between voter income, other demographic factors, and political polarization. I find that while having a higher income and a better education generally correlates with increased Republican political preference, though the relationship between higher income and increased Republican preference does not hold in lower income groups. Race is by far the most significant indicator of political preference, with whites and blacks on opposite ends of the political spectrum, and Hispanics as well as other races somewhere in between the two. In addition, I analyze the data from 20th century elections separately from 21st century elections and discover key differences in how each factor influences political preference.

"This thesis is a study of the Negro voter in Austin, Texas. The writer hopes that the findings of this study will be a valuable addition to our knowledge of the Negro voter in American politics. The thesis certainly does answer pertinent questions about Negro politics in Austin, Texas. What is the attitude of the Austin Negro toward the two major political parties? What are the attitudes of the Negro voter towards Negro political leaders and organizations? What are some of the personal factors which affect who does and who does not vote among Negroes? What is the influence of the poll tax upon the political behavior of the Negro? It is hoped that this study will answer these questions and others concerning Negro political life in Austin."-- leaf 1.