Alcohol consumption rises in states that become more liberal over time

Across the U.S., levels of alcohol consumption often vary significantly from state to state. In a new study, Pavel Yakovlev and Walter Guessford investigate the relationship between an individual’s political beliefs and consumption of alcohol. Using data on drinking habits in 50 states between 1952 and 2010, they find that people in states that become more liberal over time consume more beer and spirits, but less wine.