Representative, U.S.

Federal

CORE PURPOSE:

Form a More Perfect Union

Quick Facts

Holder(s):

Rudy Yakym (IN-2)

Term:

2 years

Method:

Elected

Level:

Federal

Oath Administered By:

Speaker of the House

Role Overview

Legislates federal laws, represents congressional district, serves on committees, and oversees federal agencies.

Constitutional Mandate:

Enacts federal laws (U.S. Const. Art. I).

Key Competencies:

Legislative knowledge, leadership, and constituent focus.

Potential Weaknesses:

• Partisanship and Gridlock: Intense polarization leads to stalled legislation, as public views highlight "partisan fighting" as a top flaw, risking delayed aid for St. Joseph issues like infrastructure.
• Influence of Money and Special Interests: High campaign costs (~$2-3 million per cycle) invite lobbyist sway, potentially skewing priorities away from local needs toward donors, eroding impartiality.
• Personal Safety Threats: Escalating political violence, with lawmakers facing doxxing and harassment, heightens risks—especially for district travel in divided areas like South Bend.
• Loss of Institutional Knowledge: Short terms and high turnover reduce expertise, amplifying errors in complex policy like tax reforms, leading to ineffective representation.

I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.