Final answer:
Elite endorsements can have a significant influence on individuals' opinions, particularly in an environment characterized by strong partisan polarization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under partisan polarization, it is indeed often assumed that elite endorsements have a greater effect on individuals’ opinions. However, the question provided does not include a decisive affirmative or negative, but rather encourages a reflection on socio-political dynamics influenced by elite-level polarization.
This influence can be seen in how major political figures navigate the media landscape to reach voters with their endorsements, which can have a considerable impact on public opinion and voting behavior. Historical trends indicate that as polarization increases, so does the reliance on party allegiances rather than personal or local issues, which underscores the power of endorsements in shaping elections.