Apportionment
The process of dividing the 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives among the 50 states based on their population, as determined by the decennial census. It ensures proportional representation in the lower chamber.
The process of dividing the 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives among the 50 states based on their population, as determined by the decennial census. It ensures proportional representation in the lower chamber.
Example: Following the 2020 census, apportionment resulted in Texas gaining two congressional seats, while New York and California each lost one, reflecting shifting population demographics.
Common misconception: The Constitution dictates that the House has 435 members. The Constitution only requires apportionment by population; the fixed number of 435 seats was established by the Reapportionment Act of 1929 and can be changed by Congress.