CONGRESS - different models of representation

Question 1

women

Answer 1

they constitute 50.4% of the population, but only 24% of congressional seats.

BUT, the 117th congress had the most women EVER - 144 seats!

Question 2

non-white POC

black community, hispanic/latino, Pacific Islander/asian, native american

Answer 2

23% - which is more racially diverse and ethnically diverse than ever before

BUT, white Americans account for 77% of congress when they only account for 60% of the population.

Question 3

christians

Answer 3

65% of USA but 88% of congress

christians are overrepresented

Question 4

what is descriptive representation?

Answer 4

this focuses on the characteristics of those elected - does Congress LOOK like America.

this assumes that members will be more successful if they are representatives of the groups they share characteristics.

Question 5

what is the average age of Congress?

Answer 5

average age has dropped continuously in the House but not so much in the Senate.

Question 6

why does Congress place great importance on representing the views of their constituents?

Answer 6

constitution states that they must be residents of the state they represent.

some states even have a locality rule which states that House members must reside in the district they represent.

House members face re-election every 2 years so they have to be very careful.

Question 7

what is the difference between the trustee and delegate model of representation?

Answer 7

trustee model = legislator is vested with formal responsibility for making decisions on behalf of others.

delegate model = someone is chosen to act on behalf of others - they are a free agent and do not practice any private judgement.