2.3 Congressional Behavior

Redistricting and Gerrymandering

Every 10 years, states redraw congressional districts based on census data. Redistricting can become gerrymandering — drawing district lines to benefit a party or incumbent. Partisan gerrymandering favors a party; majority-minority districts concentrate minority voters to increase their electoral influence, per the Voting Rights Act.

Congressional Behavior & Reelection

Members of Congress balance national interests with local district needs to win reelection. They use franking privilege (free mail), credit-claiming, and pork-barrel spending/earmarks to satisfy constituents. This tension often causes conflict between representing local interests and voting for the national good.

Committees and Caucuses

Standing committees handle ongoing policy areas and are key to a member's influence; conference committees reconcile House/Senate bill differences. Membership on committees like Ways and Means or Appropriations boosts a legislator's power. Congressional caucuses (informal member groups sharing interests) also shape behavior and coalition-building.

Key terms

Gerrymandering

Redrawing district lines to benefit a particular party or incumbent.

Majority-minority district

A district drawn so a racial or ethnic minority makes up the majority of voters, increasing their electoral influence.

Pork-barrel spending / Earmarks

Federal funds directed to specific projects in a member's district to build local support.

Franking privilege

The ability of members of Congress to send mail to constituents for free.

Standing committee vs. Conference committee

Standing committees are permanent bodies handling specific policy areas; conference committees are temporary, formed to resolve differences between House and Senate bill versions.

Try an AP-style question

Which model of representation is this?

1. Politico
2. Partisan
3. Delegate
4. Trustee