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Losing Political Representation

Author

Listed:
  • Aaron Günther
  • Niklas Potrafke

  • Felix Rösel
  • Timo Wochner

Abstract

What are the consequences of losing political representation in a democracy? A reform of Germany’s mixed electoral system left more than 7 million citizens in 23 constituencies without a directly elected representative after the 2025 national election. Which and how many constituencies were affected was unpredictable and quasi-random. We show that losing political representation reduces citizens’ satisfaction with democracy. Moreover, discontent is independent of party preferences and spreads through social networks, reducing democratic satisfaction even among individuals who were unaware of the reform’s outcome. Political representation is a cornerstone of democracy; its erosion may give rise to democratic backsliding.

Suggested Citation

  • Aaron Günther & Niklas Potrafke & Felix Rösel & Timo Wochner, 2025. "Losing Political Representation," CESifo Working Paper Series 12051, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_12051
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    JEL classification:

    • D02 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Institutions: Design, Formation, Operations, and Impact
    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • P11 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Capitalist Economies - - - Planning, Coordination, and Reform

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