DECISION-MAKING OF PEOPLE IN WANG SAPHUNG DISTRICT, LOEI PROVINCE TO VOTE FOR MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN 2023

Abstract

The objectives of this research were established (1) to study the level of decision-making in the 2023 Member of Parliament (MP) election in Wang Saphung District, Loei Province, (2) compare personal and political factors affecting their decision-making, and (3) study suggestions regarding the people’s election decisions. A Mixed Methods Research (MMR) approach was employed, incorporating both the quantitative and qualitative approaches. The sample group consisted of 398 eligible voters in Wang Saphung District, Loei Province, selected using Taro Yamane’s calculation formula. The research instruments used were a rating scale questionnaire with a total reliability of .980, and in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (t-test and one-way ANOVA). The research findings were as follows: 1. The overall and individual level of decision-making in the 2023 MP election by residents of Wang Saphung District, Loei Province, was found to be at a high level. 2. The comparison of personal and political factors influencing the decision-making in the 2023 MP election showed: 1) No statistically significant difference was found when the data were classified by gender, age, and occupation. 2) A statistically significant difference at the .05 level was found in the Political Party and Political Group aspect when the data were classified by educational level. 3) A statistically significant difference at the .05 level was found in the Candidate/Political Party Policy aspect when the data were classified by monthly income. 3. The suggestions regarding the decision-making in the 2023 MP election by eligible voters of Wang Saphung District, Loei Province, were summarized as follows: 1) Candidate Qualifications: Candidates should be local residents of the area. 2) Policies and Spatial Strategies: Policies should be linked to the area and its local residents. 3) Network and Team Building: Networks should be built from within the local population. 4) Political Party and Political Group: There should be continuous movement and alliance building within the area.