Replication Data for: “My Own Private Idaho”: A Survey of Separatist Attitudes in the Pacific Northwest

Over the past four years, thirteen counties in Eastern Oregon have voted in non-binding referenda to separate from the Democratic state of Oregon to join the Republican state of Idaho. Drawing on theories of secessionism and irredentism, we examine the drivers of the so-called Greater Idaho movement by administering a survey in the separatist counties. Our findings indicate that economic discontent and a strong regional identity are more important than fears or partisanship in determining support for moving the inter-state border. Our study suggests that more inclusive governance might help to overcome ideological polarization in this case and offers insights into how political divisions might be managed in order to prevent separatist violence in the United States more generally. We conclude that political minorities need to believe they have voice in the system so they do not mobilize for exit.