Question

Why do you think large states would favor the idea of having one representative for every 30,000 people?"

a) To ensure more diversity in representation
b) To enhance political stability
c) To prevent overrepresentation of densely populated areas
d) To promote equality among states

Answer 1

Large states favor having more representatives to ensure proportional representation. The Apportionment Act of 1911 capped the number of representatives at 435, balancing representation with concerns about legislative efficiency and physical space. This approach aims to promote equality among states and enhance diversity in the legislature.

Step-by-step explanation:

Large states might favor having one representative for every 30,000 people to ensure that the larger population within their state receives proportional representation. Historically, figures like George Washington and James Madison argued for representation based on population to ensure that constituents in more populous states had voices equivalent to those in smaller states. Adding more representatives as the population grows could solve the issue of representation, but the Apportionment Act of 1911 capped the number of House representatives at 435 due to concerns about physical space and legislative efficiency.

This representation model could help promote equality among states, as the varying sizes and populations of states are acknowledged in the apportionment of representatives. It encourages a balance of power between smaller and larger states in the legislature. Furthermore, having a larger number of representatives could enhance diversity in opinions and perspectives, which might contribute to a more thorough and representative legislative process. However, concerns about political stability and the complexity of a potentially oversized legislative body have historically influenced the cap on the number of representatives.