Is Congress representative?

Key argument 1 - Yes

Representation of minority groups and women have increased dramatically and continues to - 29.2% of women in Congress; 66 Black Congress members; Sarah McBride as the first transgender congresswomen

Key argument 2 - Yes

Caucuses allow under-represented groups to act together and increase their influence - outsiders such as Obama got in through primaries

Key argument 3 - Yes

Earmarking allows for decisions on a local level to be delivered

Key argument 4 - Yes

Interest groups and lobbyists broaden represent - National Association of the Advancement of Coloured People, BLM

Key argument 5 - Yes

The two parties represent an increasingly partisan environment and reflect the US partisan population

Key argument 1 - No

Representation doesn’t match the population - women make-up half the population; Hispanic representation doesn’t match the USA population

Key argument 2 - No

Function is compromised by financial advantages of incumbents over challengers in congressional elections

Key argument 3 - No

Gerrymandering can dramatically alter the outcome of the House by splitting up minority districts

Key argument 4 - No

Lobbyists from Interest Groups can influence members more than the constituents

Key argument 5 - No

The lack of this parties and independents means that Congress doesn’t truly reflect the political leanings of the US