Why Can Parties Benefit from Promoting Occupational Diversity in Legislatures?

• In Event: How Do Political Parties Adapt Their Communication and Representation?

Abstract

How do legislators' occupational background shape their ability to advance policy? We argue that politicians with professional experience are perceived as more credible in their areas of expertise and can more effectively persuade voters and peers. We examine this argument in a series of survey experiments in three Western democracies. First, we find that German legislators with professional experience in education are more effective at persuading voters in that policy area. We find similar effects on healthcare in the United States. The quality of the arguments put forward only partially compensates for professional background effects. These effects extend to elected officials. Swedish politicians are more likely to cosponsor legislation proposed by peers with professional experience in that field. Parties fostering occupational diversity are better equipped to build support for their policy agendas. The study uncovers a new mechanism through which descriptive representation can influence policy outcomes, independent of legislators' preferences.

Authors

• Mia Costa, Dartmouth College

• Miguel M. Pereira, London School of Economics