1. Chapter 8 Congress: Members and Elections
Section 2 Running for Congress

2. Who Can Run? A representative must: Be at least 25 years of age
Have been a U.S. citizen for at least 7 years
Live in the state and district that he or she represents
A senator must:
Be at least 30 years of age
Have been a U.S. citizen for at least 9 years
Live in the state that he or she represents
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3. Current Characteristics of Congressional Officers
Candidates for Congress are likely to be ideologues (have strong belief systems). Examples: conservative Republicans, liberal Democrats
Candidates are motivated by strong personal convictions and values.
Candidates are likely to have a strong base of supporters having ideologically similar political views, including interest groups and individuals.
Ideological supporters will help finance and promote campaigns.
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4. Your Turn
Ideologue candidates are more likely to be elected to Congress than are moderate candidates.
What are some advantages of having an ideologue in office?
What are some disadvantages?
Note to teachers: Answers will vary.
Advantages include that ideological leaders tend to be driven by values and deeply committed to the policies that represent those values and that they will fight hard for the interests of those who support the same values.
Disadvantages include that those ideologues represent the extremes of their parties and that, once elected, they may not represent the interests of their party as a whole.
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5. Perks of Serving in Congress
Members of Congress enjoy:
Power, prestige, and a good salary
Health insurance, life insurance, and a pension
Travel allowances and ample staff
The franking privilege (free mail service)
Positive exposure may lead to successful runs for higher offices. Example: Senator Barack Obama
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6. Drawbacks of Serving in Congress
Members work long hours with very little job security.
Members spend much time away from friends and family.
Some members report that:
Conflict levels between members are high
Interest group pressure is great
Reelection campaigning is time-consuming
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7. Successful Campaigning
Experienced candidates have:
Political connections
Knowledge about how to campaign
Established voter relationships
Inexperienced candidates gain experience by:
Working for other candidates
Serving as a precinct chair
Holding office in a political party organization
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8. Planning to Win
Strategic politicians use strategies to increase their chances of winning.
Strategic politicians consider these questions:
1. Is this the right district or state for me?
2. Is the incumbent a member of my party, another party, or not running?
3. Do I have access to enough funds to run an effective campaign?
4. Nationally, how is my party doing?
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9. How National Politics Affects Elections
Coattail effect: If the leaders of a party are popular, candidates are more likely to get elected.
Historically, the party of the president tends to lose midterm elections (also called off-year elections).
This is Figure 8.5 on page 247 of the Student Text.
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10. Party Control in the House, 1988–2006
This is Figure 8.5 on page 247 of the Student Text.
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