Peran Partai Politik Dan Kandidat Dalam Membentuk Pilihan Rasional Pada Pemilihan Bupati Dan Wakil Bupati Kabupaten Buton Tengah Tahun 2024

Abstract

This study aims to explores the role of political parties and candidates in shaping rational voter choices during the 2024 regional election in Buton Tengah. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation involving voters, campaign teams, and local figures. The findings reveal that candidate attributes—such as leadership track record, vision, and public image strategies—had a more substantial influence than party affiliation on voter decisions. Voters tended to evaluate candidates based on their professional experience and the clarity of their proposed programs, while political parties played a limited role, mostly as formal or administrative platforms. Direct campaigning, social engagement, and digital outreach emerged as more effective in building voter trust and emotional connection, especially in rural areas. These findings suggest that voter rationality is shaped not only by ideological considerations but also by pragmatic interests and personal rapport with candidates. Consequently, voting behavior in Buton Tengah reflects a complex interplay of rational calculation and socio-cultural influences.