In the 2018 election cycle, STEM candidates surged into congressional races. This study profiles nearly 200 such candidates and examines factors influencing their electoral outcomes.
* Data & Methodology
Using a newly constructed dataset of over 500 candidates across all parties, I analyzed the characteristics and success rates of those with science, technology, engineering, or mathematics backgrounds.
Key Findings
• Three-quarters were first-time congressional candidates.
• Democrats made up the majority (73%) among STEM candidates.
• Men outnumbered women in this group across both parties.
• However, female STEM candidates significantly outperformed their male counterparts.
Political Impact
The trend suggests a growing influence of specialized expertise on Capitol Hill and raises questions about the changing dynamics of political competition.
| Political Scientists: A Profile of Congressional Candidates with STEM Backgrounds was authored by Matthew Motta. It was published by Cambridge in PS in 2021. |
