MLAs and constituency representation in two Manitoba ridings
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Date
2014-09-10
Authors
Rebizant, Jessica
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Abstract
Representation is a multi-faceted process that is integral to the Canadian democratic system. The process of representation relies on continuous negotiation between the elected representative and their constituents. It is through this process of building and maintaining connections with constituents that politicians develop their own representational strategy. This thesis examines two case studies—Manitoba MLAs Ralph Eichler and Blaine Pederson—to consider how Manitoba MLAs represent their constituents. A participant observation methodology was used to familiarize the researcher with the representational practices of these case study MLAs. It was found that even though the two MLAs were descriptively similar, the approaches they employed to represent their constituents were significantly different. It was further found that these vast differences were mainly attributed to three influential factors: personal goals, constituency context, and formative experiences.
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Keywords
representation, constituents