Variables

Descriptive Statistics

Notes

Constituent Race

White (76.09%)

Black (10.03%)

Non-Black Minority (13.88%)

Although I did not include a self-identification measure of race as I did not interview constituents, the coding of race based on perception is appropriate for this study because the observer’s perception is likely to reflect that of the member. In many instances, council members do not know the constituent speaking and can, therefore, only deduce the race of the person by observation.

Member Race

White (78.41%)

Black (12.34%)

Non-Black Minority (9.25%)

Member Gender

Female = 0 (44.73%)

Male = 1 (55.27%)

Constituent Gender

Female = 0 (31.11%)

Male = 1 (68.89%)

Constituent Age

Younger than 50 = 0 (42.67%)

50 or over = 1 (57.33%)

The original age variable was an ordered variable with 5 levels (younger than 30; 30 - 39; 40 - 49; 50 - 59; and 60+). The author was able to determine the age for most of the constituents through a google search. For the remaining constituents, age was estimated based on appearance.

Days Elapsed

0 - 10

Median = 2

Mean = 2.86

Interview Length

16 - 74 minutes

Median = 35

Mean = 37.15

Speak on Legislation

Speak on non-ordinance issues = 0 (41.90%)

Speak on prospective local ordinance = 1 (58.10%)

Speech on non-ordinance issues includes, but is not limited to, complaints about city services, request for assistance with a community or personal issue, and criticisms of or compliments to local officials.

Same Opinion as Another Constituent

0 (50.90%)

1 (49.10%)