Why do people in small towns tend to be more conservative?

Conservative people in big cities and liberals in small towns tend to keep their opinions to themselves, which means they have less opportunity to influence others, and promotes the idea that the local politics are universal, and no one you can understand would think differently.

How many conservative cities are there in America?

Of the 56 cities in the U.S. with more than 250,000 residents, only 11 are conservative compared to 45 that are liberal. More interestingly, although those 11 more conservative cities do indeed tend to the right, they only do so “a little bit.”

What is it like to live in a rural area?

By contrast, I’ve spent enough time living in rural areas (and have quite a few relatives who still do) that I understand how there’s a different mindset. People feel more independent and less impacted by those around them. There’s a sense that you have to fend for yourself, that you can rely on your family and close friends, and that’s about it.

Why do some people feel more independent than others?

People feel more independent and less impacted by those around them. There’s a sense that you have to fend for yourself, that you can rely on your family and close friends, and that’s about it. And how other people live doesn’t obviously impact your life, to the same degree.

Why are big cities so successful?

The answer is rooted in history. Big cities in the United States are a forceful engine for the economy, generating nearly 85 percent of the economic output ( Richard Florida; 2013).

Why are cities and metros so important in US politics?

Just as cities and metros provide the economic engine of the U.S. economy — generating 85 percent of economic output — they have also become a singular political force. But what are the factors that are shaping their votes and redefining U.S. politics?

Why are Sun Belt cities so important to politics?

Not just the big, traditionally blue cities of the Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast, but a number of fast-growing Sun Belt cities as well. Just as cities and metros provide the economic engine of the U.S. economy — generating 85 percent of economic output — they have also become a singular political force.