What is elite cue theory in public opinion?

• A. The idea that mass opinion drives political elites.
• B. The idea that political elites influence mass opinion by providing cues and interpretations that the public follows.
• C. The belief that media sets all public opinion directly.
• D. The concept that voters ignore elite messaging.

Answer: (B)

Elite cue theory says political elites influence mass opinion by providing cues and interpretations that guide how the public understands issues. Elites act as information brokers, offering concise frames, signals, and values that help people categorize information and form attitudes, especially when they don’t have the time or motivation to analyze every detail themselves. The public tends to follow these cues from trusted leaders or parties, shaping opinions accordingly even if individuals don’t dive into the facts deeply. For example, when a respected figure labels a policy as “protecting national security,” supporters are likely to view it more positively because they’re guided by that cue rather than by independent, in-depth analysis. This is why the best description is that elites influence mass opinion by providing cues and interpretations that the public follows. It’s distinct from views where mass opinion drives elites, or where the media sets all public opinion directly, or where voters ignore elite messaging.