This paper examines how political parties and interest groups shape policy outcomes with differential impacts across socioeconomic classes. It explores the mechanisms driving class-based inequality in American politics, analyzing both descriptive representation (who holds office) and substantive representation (what policies are enacted). The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data with qualitative case studies of legislative bargaining. Key findings reveal persistent disparities despite formal party structures promoting elite capture through informal networks.

Data & Methods:

• Mixed methods research design

• Quantitative survey data collected from 1,052 political actors across 49 states

• Qualitative analysis of 38 state-level legislative bargaining sessions

• Regression models and network analysis techniques

Key Findings:

• Elite capture remains prevalent despite party structures designed for equality

• Informal networking outweighs formal institutional representation mechanisms

• Disproportionate policy influence correlates with class-based access to political networks

Implications:

• Challenges descriptive representation theories in complex democratic systems

• Highlights the need to examine informal political institutions alongside formal ones

• Provides insights into persistent socioeconomic inequality within American democracy