In rural states’ “citizen” legislatures, ordinary citizens can’t afford to serve

Jan 31, 2023
For many who consider seeking office, the low pay is outweighed by the costs. As a result, legislatures may not be truly representative.
Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena with one of her children at the New Mexico Capitol. "I put my family in a compromising situation by deciding to serve in an unpaid body,” she said.
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