The July 4th weekend is already here and for many Americans, the weekend dedicated to celebrating America's independence and freedom wouldn't be complete without a good hot dog (or two), hamburgers, bbq, loud music, ice cold beer, American flags and red, white and blue outfits. But this year, to get things off to a good start, USNews reports a new Harvard study confirms Republicans are more patriotic than Democrats.
A new Harvard University study finds that July 4th parades energize only Republicans, turn kids into Republicans, and help to boost the GOP turnout of adults on Election Day.
"Fourth of July celebrations in the United States shape the nation's political landscape by forming beliefs and increasing participation, primarily in favor of the Republican Party," said the report from Harvard.
"The political right has been more successful in appropriating American patriotism and its symbols during the 20th century. Survey evidence also confirms that Republicans consider themselves more patriotic than Democrats. According to this interpretation, there is a political congruence between the patriotism promoted on Fourth of July and the values associated with the Republican party. Fourth of July celebrations in Republican dominated counties may thus be more politically biased events that socialize children into Republicans," write Harvard Kennedy School Assistant Professor David Yanagizawa-Drott and Bocconi University Assistant Professor Andreas Madestam.
Their findings also suggest that Democrats gain nothing from July 4th parades.
The three key findings of those attending July 4th celebrations:
* When done before the age of 18, it increases the likelihood of a youth identifying as a Republican by at least 2 percent.
* It raises the likelihood that parade watchers will vote for a Republican candidate by 4 percent.
* It boosts the likelihood a reveler will vote by about 1 percent and increases the chances they'll make a political contribution by 3 percent.
Lesson: Thank a soldier for protecting your freedom. Take your kids and friends to the 4th of July parade this weekend. Be proud to be an American. Have a great 4th of July weekend.
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