Unequal and Unrepresented

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The Declaration of Independence asserts equality as a core American value, yet "Unequal and Unrepresented" reveals that political voice in the U.S. is marked by significant inequality and lack of representation. Those who are affluent and well-educated dominate the conversation, while the less privileged struggle to be heard. Drawing on three decades of research, the authors provide an updated synthesis of their findings on political participation. They explore various avenues through which citizens can influence public outcomes—voting, campaigning, direct communication with officials, and both online and offline engagement. Socioeconomic disparities permeate all forms of political expression, with the wealthy having a pronounced advantage, particularly in activities requiring financial investment, such as lobbying or campaign donations. As those at the top increasingly invest heavily in politics, their voices overshadow others, skewing what public officials hear. Through real-life examples and a multifaceted examination of inequalities, the authors illustrate how these disparities in political voice pose a significant threat to American democracy today.