What is one effect of the coattail effect?

The coattail effect refers to the phenomenon where candidates running for office benefit from the popularity of a top-of-the-ticket candidate, such as a presidential candidate. When a presidential candidate is particularly popular, they tend to draw higher support for other candidates from the same political party who are running for different offices, such as congressional, state, or local positions. This can lead to greater electoral success for those candidates, as their association with the popular figure can help consolidate votes that might otherwise go to the opposition.

This dynamic is particularly visible during presidential election years, where the coattail effect can significantly impact down-ballot races. Voters who are enthusiastic about a presidential candidate may be more likely to vote for other candidates from the same party, believing that those candidates are aligned with the policies and leadership of the popular candidate. This results in a strategic advantage for candidates sharing the same party affiliation as the presidential candidate, which aligns with the correct answer.