Suchergebnisse

Studies of the impact of electoral structure, whether at large or by districts, on black representation in Ur governments have used different measures of "equitable" representation as well as varying designs, samples, & analytical methods. An attempt is made to resolve discrepancies in findings by employing two competing measures of equitable representation & assessing the influence of electoral structure in cities with mixed electoral forms & in single-structure cities. Comparisons are made among all cities in the US with 25,000+ inhabitants & at least 10% black population in 1978, including 111 cities with pure at-large elections, 27 cities with at-large elections with residence requirements, 62 cities with pure district elections, & 64 cities with mixed systems. Results, though inconsistent, support district elections as safeguarding the representation of minorities of whatever race. 4 Tables. Modified HA.

The impact of black mayors & city council members on a variety of social welfare expenditures is assessed. Data are derived from 155 US cities of over 50,000 inhabitants, with at least 10% black inhabitants. An over-time design is used to explore social welfare policy changes for 1968-1975. The presence of a black mayor promotes greater spending increases for social welfare; however, black city council representation has little or no impact. 1 Table. Modified HA.