ABSTRACT

In political representation as well as in other areas, blacks have long lagged whites. Since 1970, the number of black elected officials has sextupled, and their congressional representation since 1965 has increased eightfold. US political observers debate not only the outlook for blacks as regards representation but also in terms of influence. Residential patterns provide some evidence that African American political representation might not be quite as poor as initially seems. The traditional view is that socioeconomic and demographic conditions mean that blacks cannot hold much weight. Indeed, relations between African Americans and Bill Clinton have been the subject of much comment. Nominally a left-wing politician, Clinton has helped undo some of the social safety net built for the poor over the decades. Food stamps are harder to get, and welfare benefits are today more restricted and limited than before.