2020 Exploratory Testing Survey
About the Dataset
- Special Study
- Completions: 3,080
- Sample: combined data from three separate opt-in online panels
- Mode: Internet
- Weights: None available
Initial Release
This is an “initial release” to give access to the data as quickly as possible. Please let us know if you find errors or have comments or questions about the data or documentation.
Study Highlights
The ANES 2020 Exploratory Testing Survey was conducted for the purpose of testing new questions and carrying out methodological research to inform the design of the ANES 2020 Time Series study. As distinct from many ANES pilot surveys, the primary aim of this study was to allow for more targeted experimentation and testing of longer batteries of questions, with less concern for estimation of population characteristics. In line with these goals, the study relies on non-probability samples, and no sampling weights are provided. We caution users about using these data to make inferences about the distribution of opinions in the American electorate.
The survey content was shaped to a significant degree by ideas offered by the ANES user community through public solicitations and by members of the ANES national advisory board. Additional questions were included to capture changes in the political environment and recent developments in social science research. The questionnaire includes questions about voting behavior, candidate traits, political engagement, ideological orientations, racial identity and stereotyping, and many topical issues including #MeToo, immigration, impeachment, and the coronavirus pandemic.
Data collection was conducted between April 10, 2020 and April 18, 2020. Sample was provided by three separate opt-in internet panel vendors. ANES staff programmed the survey and collected the data directly using the Qualtrics survey platform. The combined final sample includes responses from 3,080 adult citizens from across the United States.