Congress - Gerrymandering - Political parties that have a majority of house seats will redraw district lines - This way they can capture a more favorable constituency Gerrymandering - Both republicans and democrats are guilty of gerrymandering - Both parties complain about gerrymandering when they do not have a majority then Gerrymander when they win a majority. Redistricting - If district lines do not unduly disadvantage racial and ethnic groups, congressional Districts can be drawn in any way legislatures choose. Congress - Localism - Emphasis on politics at the local level - The main goal of most politicians is to get re-elected Localism - Pork barrel legislation - The spending of government resources for localized projects. Done solely to To bring money to a representative’s district - Intended to benefit constituents in exchange for support and votes Congressional Demographics - Current congress is the most diverse of all time - 75% White - 11% Black - 10% Hispanic - 4% Asian - Economic status - Members of congress are usually wealthy - About 40% of house members are millionaires - About 65% of senate members are millionaires Congressional Gender - 73% Men - 27% Women Congressional Committee - A specialized congressional subgroup that handles specific issues - Committees determine what legislation makes to the floor in congress