Whereas: Stories from the People’s House
After months of political advertisements and debates, citizens turn out to elect their Representatives on Election Day. Incumbent and hopeful Members of Congress also show up at the polls in their home districts, casting a ballot (presumably) for themselves. Three photographs from the House Collection show past Representatives in the act of voting, while also posing for a good photo op.
It started simply enough, a hundred years ago. Americans bought cars. Americans loved cars. And Americans loved politics. So, it seemed almost inevitable that automobiles became rolling billboards for their owners’ favorite candidates. Representatives cheerfully provided different auto accessories, which became a favorite method for taking the campaign on the road.
Not so long ago, match
companies touted “the smashing advertising power of book matches!” as the best
way to light a fire under voters. Budget-conscious candidates agreed. Low cost and wide use turned a set of strikes into “20 little
salesmen” for congressional candidates.
Massachusetts Speaker Tip O’Neill once said, “All politics is local.” With elections held every two years, the House of Representatives is designed to be immediately answerable to its constituents. Members typically seek to gain committee assignments that align with their districts’ interests and frequently return home to connect with voters. This Edition for Educators focuses on congressional districts and how their unique needs influence the Members who represent them.
Categories:
Elections, Edition for Educators
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Categories:
Members of Congress, Minorities on the Hill
Slam Dunk: Doughnuts and the House
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Members of Congress, Photographs
Reporting Live from the House Chamber
Edition for Educators—Presidency and the House
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Presidents, Edition for Educators
We’ve Re-launched Our Blog
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Announcements