citizen legislatures Archives - Marketplace

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

by Savannah Peters

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.

Savannah Maher/Marketplace

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