congress and representation 2.3

Question 1

what is the difference between delegate and trustee

Answer 1

(HOUSE) delegate = representative acts according to the direct wishes of their constituents
(SENATE) trustee = The representative uses their own judgement to make decisions (even though constituents voted for them)

Question 2

what are the arguments as to why congress is representative

Answer 2

• separate elections for congress and president
• two elected chambers
• frequent elections

Question 3

what are the arguments as to why congress is not representative

Answer 3

• FPTP and gerrymandering
• Social representation (2017 non-whites make up 38 per cent of the population but 19 per cent of Congress)
• influence of pressure groups