1. According to the Constitution, how many members serve in the House of Representatives?
2. Why did the Framers believe the size of the House should be kept at a fixed number?
3. As of 2009, which of the following approximates the number of residents in each congressional district: (a) 530,000 (b) 700,000 or (c) 970,000?
As Jacoby points out, "Go to the head of the class if you recognized all three as trick questions." What's he up to?
Jacoby examines the disparity between districts, overall population, and, therefore, representation. A lawsuit is underway that challenges the current number of representatives.
As Jacoby says about enlarging the House,
Today's incumbents would hate the idea, of course: It would dilute their power and make them more accountable. For a congressional baron, there could be no fate more odious. But James Madison would certainly approve.Read the full column here.
I must tell you that I have seen how the House and its members work. When the Congress is in session, nobody works harder than these folks. The problem is that the size of districts makes many of our representatives immune from outside challengers. A larger body, with smaller districts would certainly add some spice to political life.
Well, that's what I have to say.
Stephen M. Flatow
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