Work

Elections that inspire: Effects of Black mayors on educational attainment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We study the impact of the election of a Black mayor in Brazil on Black students’ educational attainment. Using a regression discontinuity design in close elections, we find that Black students in municipalities where Black candidates won are more likely to register for the National High School Examination, attend university, and graduate. Our evidence is consistent with changes in students’ aspirations: secondary/tertiary education is not a mayor’s primary responsibility; Black mayors do not perform better in policies that affect our outcomes; and effects are strong for Black students from both public and private schools, while weaker for White students from public schools.

Source: Journal of Public Economics

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpubeco.2026.105639

Authors: Jorge Ikawa, Clarice Martins, Pedro C. Sant’Anna, Rogerio Santarrosa

Institutions: Insper, Escola Superior de Propaganda e Marketing, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: School Choice and Performance

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Quality education, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,510