Different strokes for different folks: Does the "local list" label make voters less vigilant?

In this paper, I ask whether the "independence" of local lists, i.e. their detachment from the (generally disliked) national parties, relaxes citizens' vigilance against dishonest local politicians. If so, it would be suggestive evidence that local electorates use double standards while assessing candidates affiliated with national parties and those affiliated with the local lists. It is a well-known paradox that high distaste for corruption and nepotism in local politics frequently goes in hand with the popularity of particular discredited politicians. Yet, it has not been verified if party affiliations play any moderating role in explaining voters' responses to misconduct. Using a randomized (vignette) survey experiment, I investigate the conditions under which local voters become more permissive and "turn their blind eye" to corrupt officials seeking re-election. One of the key dimensions tested is the party affiliation of an accused official. The empirical analyses will be based on the original data from a large survey (local election study) launched in Spring 2024, just after local elections in Poland.