Demographics of Congress

114th Congress

1. Does the gender composition of the 114th Congress mirror that of the US population?

2. Why do you think more men are elected to Congress than women?

1. Describe the trend in gender composition of Congress.

2. What are some benefits to having more female congresswomen?

1. What racial group is most prevalent in Congress?

2. What problems might arise from having such a white Congress?

1. Describe the trend in racial composition of Congress.

2. What are some benefits to having a more racially diverse legislature?

113th Congress

1. How well did the 113th Congress represent based on gender?2. What are the advantages to having a Congress that more accurately reflects

gender?3. Is it necessary to have female congresswomen to represent women’s needs?

1. What group was overrepresented in Congress?2. What group was most underrepresented?3. Is it preferable to have a Congress that is more racially diverse?

1. What religions dominated the 113th Congress?2. What policy areas do you think are most affected by religious biases?

1. What level of education do most Congressmen attain?2. Would it be good if Congress mirrored the education level of the US

population? Why?

1. What advantages are there to having an older average age in Congress than in the population?

2. What policy areas do you think would be better addressed by a younger Congress?