So, from what I’ve seen the easiest way to get to be a Congressperson is to marry one. Prefferably an accident-prone one, or an elderly one. Then, when they die, you just get to take their place. Viola! Instant seat in Congress.
Why is this? What are the rules and traditions behind this? Does it apply to Senators also? Why not other elected officials?
I don’t see DA’s spouses, or Mayoral spouses, or even Presidential spouses being offered this opportunity to take office. What is the difference, besides what elected position they hold?
There is no line of succession for a member of Congress, Representative or Senator, like there is for President or Mayor. The state governor gets to appoint anyone he chooses.
It’s more than just a tax payer paid gift to the spouse. Congress can be thought of as a big social club. Who you know counts a lot. The spouse knows those people. The spouse has a better chance of getting re-paid any favors that the dead member is owed than a stranger would. The best part is the spouse may not be a lawyer. [Nothing against lawyers, too many people of any single profession will reduce the variety of viewpoints.]