The U.S. House of Representatives

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The U.S. House of Representatives Reform or Rebuild?

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Joseph F. Zimmerman, Wilma Rule

Book Code: B6580

ISBN: 0-275-96580-5

ISBN-13: 978-0-275-96580-8

DOI:

248 pages, figures, tables

Praeger Paperback

Publication: 4/30/2000

List Price: $28.95 (UK Sterling Price: £16.95)

Availability: Out of stock

Media Type: Paperback

Also Available: Hardcover

Trim Size: 6 1/8 x 9 1/4

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Description: The unrepresentativeness of the US House of Representatives- in terms of ethnicity, gender, race, and socio-economic status-and its nearly closed system for election have generated questions about the legitimacy and authority of the House as an institution which "represents" citizens and whether House membership should mirror directly the diverse population of the nation. This essay collection examines the causes of the unrepresentative character of the House and offers recommendations to make it a more representative deliberative body. The single-member district system is the major causal factor of the unrepresentativeness and alternative electoral systems-single-transferable vote types of proportional representation, cumulative voting, and limited voting-are examined. The alternative electoral systems are multi-member district ones and can be employed only if Congress repeals its requirement that members of the House be elected by single-member districts. Other possible reforms include enlargement of the size of the House, term limits, a new system of election campaign finance, and more effective regulation of campaign contributions and expenditures. The essays provide balanced views on the effects of various reform proposals by including chapters by experts who warn of the possible unintended effects of reforms or argue the proposed reforms are not needed and stress the need for actions to strengthen deliberations, promote civility, adjust the committee system, reduce the workload of members, and promote better public understanding of the House. An important collection for students, scholars, and researchers interested in the workings of Congress and American politics.

Table of Contents:

Preface
The Representation Problem
The Ideal and the Historical Reality
Causes and Consequences of Unrepresentativeness
Reform Possibilities
Prospects for Reform
Bibliography
Index


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