OVERDETERMINED: Building a Voter File: 2008 Vote History!

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Tuesday January 06, 2009 · 8:02 AM PST

2009/01/06 · 08:02

It's the most...wonderful...time...of the year. That is, the time when the data for the 2008 elections finally comes in.

Generally, new versions of state files come in at a steady trickle, growing to a near-unmanageable flood as the election draws near. But early in the new year after an election, there will be more than usual. Why? The long-awaited arrival of vote history and final new registration figures for the 2008 general.

blueleader

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Monday December 29, 2008 · 12:13 PM PST

2008/12/29 · 12:13

Cross-posted from Overdetermined.net

In my last entry, I discussed matching lists when they did not share a common, persistent and unique identifier. Basic conclusion: challenging! In this week's entry, I'll share a common technique for making the job a little easier--one which has a number of uses beyond list-matching. Read more...

blueleader

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Monday October 27, 2008 · 11:26 AM PDT

2008/10/27 · 11:26

Originally posted at Overdetermined.net

Consumer data is one of the most frustrating areas of voter file design, especially if you're interested in transparency or an open-source methodology. Large parts of the voter file process use publically available data, and can be duplicated by any group with relatively low levels of equipment and technical skill (for example, witness my tutorial effort, which I absolutely promise to get back to after the election). There's no such ability for data appends. After the jump I'll explain why.

blueleader

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Monday October 20, 2008 · 10:51 AM PDT

2008/10/20 · 10:51

Cross-posted at overdetermined.net

As promised earlier, I'm focusing on the way voter files are used during the runup to an election. Last week we covered early voting; this week, it's time to focus on new registrants. Follow me to the magical land of beneath the fold...

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OVERDETERMINED: Building a Voter File: 2008 Vote History!

OVERDETERMINED: Building a Voter File: Address Standardization

OVERDETERMINED: Consumer Data, Microtargeting and Open Source Political Work

Building a Voter File: New Registrants