Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The assistance provided by elected officials to their constituents (the people they represent) in order to address their concerns, provide information, and help solve problems related to government services or policies.
Related terms
Casework: The individualized assistance provided by elected officials or their staff members to constituents who have specific problems or issues with government agencies or policies.
Pork barrel projects: Government spending on local projects that is intended primarily to bring money and benefits back home for a representative's constituents.
Grassroots campaigning: Political activities conducted at the local level by candidates or their supporters, aimed at connecting directly with individual voters within a specific constituency.