Sources for Standardized Evidence for VoteEasy
Standardized Evidence is evidence that applies to more than one politician. We relate this evidence in bulk to all politicians associated with that evidence, for efficiency and consistency purpose. Below are those data types currently expected to be used in Standardized Research. However, additional sources may be proposed for inclusion.
Standardized Evidence is a dynamic list that is built upon each year. Each unique question should have it's own set of standardized evidence, though related questions should probably start with the set of evidence that has been used for the similar question. It will likely be necessary to distinguish the year that a particular piece of evidence was added to the set, so it is clear what need to be added to previous candidates.
First and foremost, previous VoteEasy Research should be transferred over, and caution should be taken to ensure that additional standardized evidence corresponds with previous years' associations, and duplicate evidence does not appear for those having previous VoteEasy Research.
In some cases, we may choose to limit the scope of standardized research to certain offices or types of data. The National Director should approve this scope, and staff conducting individual research must have clear instructions of which evidence they will want to consider in their research efforts. Keep in mind that even if we are focusing on federal officials, many will have records on the state and local level.
Standardized Evidence Vs. Individual Research:
Any evidence that is applied in bulk could be included as part of the individual research being done (typically this will include past Political Courage Tests, legislation, interest group ratings and endorsements). Those completing initial research will be primarily responsible for researching public statements like speeches, interviews, debates, social media (including tweets and facebook posts), campaign ads, and other statements not covered in standardized evidence. Note: pledges are included as part of standardized research. However, it is still important to understand every kind of resource used in VoteEasy research.A standardized evidence document is also delivered to IT for the purposes of selecting VoteEasy ratings and key votes data. See ticket 8850.
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Standardized Evidence (2012)
NPAT Department>2011-2012 PCT Files>VoteEasy Research>pct_citations
