Evaluate the view that congress doesn’t fulfil its representation function Flashcards
(18 cards)
Point 1: What does Congress lack in terms of representation?
Descriptive representation
Despite being the most racially diverse in history, Congress does not proportionally represent minority groups, such as women and Hispanic Americans.
Point 1:What percentage of Congress is made up of women?
28%
Women constitute 50.8% of the U.S. population, indicating a significant underrepresentation.
Point 1: What percentage of Congress is made up of Hispanic Americans?
11%
Hispanic Americans account for 16.7% of the U.S. population.
Point 1: What does the underrepresentation of women and minorities in Congress suggest?
Certain groups do not have an equal voice. blk ppl 12% of the population and 12% in congress
This can lead to policies that do not fully address the needs of these groups.
Counter-Point 1: What significant event in 2022 marked a change in representation in Congress?
Election of Maxwell Frost representing the 10th Florida congressional district
He became the first Gen Z representative elected to Congress.
Counter-Point 1: What percentage of House districts were majority-minority in 2022?
31%
This increase provides more opportunities for minority candidates.
Point 2: What is a major concern regarding the influence on Congress?
Overly influenced by special interests
Lobbyists spent $3.73 billion in 2021 to influence Congress.
Point 2: What was the peak federal lobbying expenditure by the NRA in 2017 spent?
$5.1 million
This illustrates the significant financial influence of special interest groups.
Point 2: How does lobbyist influence affect lawmakers?
Prioritise wealthy corporations over constituents
This diminishes Congress’ ability to represent ordinary Americans.
Counterpoint 2: What do members of congress try to do?
Actively engage with their constituents
What action did 12 Republicans take during the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act?
Voted against their own party because it would raise taxes in their constituents in all high states like California and New York.
Counterpoint 2: Bernie Sanders’s stance In 2021 $770 billion National Defense Authorization Act
the increased military spending would be better allocated to domestic programs like Medicaid, reflecting his constituents’ priorities for social services over defense expenditure.
Point 3: What does the electoral system limit in terms of representation?
Fair representation
Strategic district drawing during the redistricting cycle benefits one party.
Point 3: What was the result of the 2021–22 redistricting cycle for Republicans?
Gained 3–4 additional seats
This made elections less competitive.
Point 3: What was ruled against by the Supreme Court regarding racial gerrymandering in 2017?
12th North Carolina district
This ruling addressed unfair district drawing practices.
Counterpoint 3: What can frequent elections increase in Congress?
Accountability
House members face re-election every two years while senate is 6 years (1/3 are up for election every 2 years), requiring them to respond to constituents.
Counterpoint 3: How many incumbent House members lost their seats in the 2020 primary elections?
Seven, voters have the power in removing representatives who don’t act in their best interests.
This shows voters’ power to remove representatives who fail in their duties.
What was the outcome of the 2022 11th Carolina congressional district
Cawthorn faced a series of scandals, including accusations of inappropriate behavior and controversial statements. These issues led to a loss of support within his party and among constituents.
