Question 1

Should members of Congress determine their own salary and benefits? Why or why not? If not, who should decide?

Accepted Answer

Members of Congress should not determine their own salary and benefits. Allowing them to do so creates a conflict of interest and opens the door to potential abuse of power. Instead, an independent body, such as the Congressional Budget Office or a similar nonpartisan organization, should be responsible for determining the salary and benefits of members of Congress. This would help ensure fairness and transparency in the decision-making process, and prevent any one group from having undue influence over their compensation. Additionally, involving an independent body would help to remove the perception of self-interest and prioritize the needs of the American people.

Question 2

What is the best level of descriptive representation? Theriault and Edwards suggest that the proportion of members of Congress should equal the proportion of the population. Is that the best level or should it be more to make up for past inequality? Or, is just under the proportion of the population acceptable?

Accepted Answer

The best level of descriptive representation is a matter of ongoing debate and can vary depending on the specific context and goals of representation. Theriault and Edwards suggest that the proportion of members of Congress should equal the proportion of the population, which is known as descriptive representation. This approach aims to ensure that the demographics of the legislative body reflect the demographics of the population it represents.

However, some argue that simply matching the proportion of the population may not be sufficient to address past inequalities and systemic barriers to representation. In this view, it may be necessary to have more than proportional representation in order to make up for historical underrepresentation and to ensure that diverse perspectives and experiences are adequately represented in the legislative process.

On the other hand, others may argue that just under the proportion of the population may be acceptable, as long as there is meaningful and effective representation of diverse voices and interests within the legislative body.

Ultimately, the best level of descriptive representation may depend on a variety of factors, including the specific historical and social context, the goals of representation, and the effectiveness of the legislative body in addressing the needs and concerns of the population it represents. It is important to continue to critically evaluate and discuss the best approaches to achieving equitable and inclusive representation in government.

Question 3

Why are most members of underrepresented groups Democrats today? Will that ever change? Why or why not?

Accepted Answer

Most members of underrepresented groups tend to align with the Democratic party today for a few reasons. Historically, the Democratic party has been more vocal and supportive of issues that directly impact underrepresented groups, such as civil rights, social justice, and economic equality. Additionally, the Republican party has often been perceived as less inclusive and less supportive of policies that benefit underrepresented communities.

Furthermore, the Democratic party has actively worked to engage and mobilize underrepresented groups, making them feel more included and represented in the political process. This has created a sense of loyalty and trust among these communities towards the Democratic party.

Whether this will ever change is difficult to predict. It is possible that as political landscapes and party platforms evolve, the alignment of underrepresented groups may shift. However, for this to happen, the Republican party would need to make significant efforts to address the concerns and priorities of underrepresented communities and demonstrate a genuine commitment to their issues. Additionally, societal and cultural shifts could also play a role in potentially changing the political affiliations of underrepresented groups.

Ultimately, the alignment of underrepresented groups with the Democratic party is a complex and multifaceted issue, and any potential change would depend on a variety of factors including political strategies, policy priorities, and societal attitudes.

Question 4

Is substantive representation more effective for constituents than descriptive representation? Why or why not?

Accepted Answer

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Question 5

Should members of Congress be more transparent about what their primary goal will be if they are elected to Congress?
a. Would they be honest, or would the proximate goal of reelection cloud their statements?

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Question 6

Is it possible for members of Congress to be pragmatic ideologues when pursing good public policy?

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Question 7

Given the way members divide their time, what would you change? Are they spending the right amount of time fulfilling the duties you think are most important? Why or why not?

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Question 8

Theriault and Edwards claim that voting on the floor is the most important thing members do. Do you agree or disagree with their statement? Why?

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Question 9

Political scientists argue about whether descriptive or substantive representation matter more. Define both types of representation and summarize the arguments on both sides. Use concrete examples to support your definitions. Then, pick a side of the debate and briefly explain why you agree with that side.

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Question 10

Why might a member of Congress prioritize the goal of reelection over the many other goals they have? Is it bad that some members prioritize reelection over other goals? Support your answer with support from the text and examples.

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Question 11

Why has having majority party status in Congress become a goal of members? How does being in the majority help those members? Be sure to support your answer with examples.

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Question 12

While in Washington, D.C. members of Congress adhere to incredibly complex and jam-packed schedules. Discuss at least three duties members must fulfill and explain why they must tend to that duty. If necessary, detail how that duty might change from one day to the next. Be sure to include examples where possible.

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Question 13

Why is voting on the floor a member's most important job while in Washington, D.C.? Given the importance of voting, discuss what members might take into account when deciding how to vote. Be sure to support your answer with a rationale for why members might care about the factors they take into account when voting.

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Question 14

List two negative behaviors driven by the assumption that members are single-minded seekers of reelection.

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Question 15

Hiring staffers can be a tricky task for members to navigate. Describe two potential problems that less-than-ideal staffers might have.

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Question 16

Why do members tend to prioritize meetings with constituents?

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Question 17

Why might a member of Congress travel abroad?

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Question 18

Anita Hill historically accused Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment. During her time before the Senate Judiciary Committee she was treated rather poorly. What significance did this event have on American politics?

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Question 19

Which underrepresented group continues to increase most markedly in the years just after redistricting? Why is this group making such great gains in representation?

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Question 20

Are there more or fewer veterans in Congress in recent years? Why?

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Quiz 4: Being a Member of Congress