Party and Political Recruitment

In comparison with other states, Pennsylvania has elected few women to its legislature. This research explores the role of party in determining access House; this focus emerged after eliminated explanations (e.g., voter apathy, difficulty raising money) for paucity women. All 37 freshman House members class 1983 were interviewed explore how they reached Harrisburg. learning what factors accounted their success, study seeks identify obstacles recruitment Four distinct patterns emerged, based upon activities and prior political office. each these patterns, parties have a crucial role. One factor limiting female is that participation been more focused toward non-partisan groups concerned specific issues rather than parties. Political who devote energies instead reduce likelihood becoming state representatives.