Congress
Substantive Representation
Definition
When officials act on their constituents' interests and policy views, whatever the officials' own background.
Related Terms
Descriptive Representation
When elected officials share the demographics of the people they represent, such as race, gender, or background.
RepresentativeA member of the House of Representatives. Also called a Congressman or Congresswoman.
ConstituentA person who lives in an elected official's district or state. Members of Congress serve and answer to their constituents.
More Congress Terms
Common Questions
- What does "Substantive Representation" mean?
- When officials act on their constituents' interests and policy views, whatever the officials' own background.
- What terms are related to substantive representation?
- Related terms include: Descriptive Representation, Representative, Constituent. Understanding these related concepts helps provide context for substantive representation.