Do you know why we have 435 representatives in the House?
In 1929, after a decade of debate, Congress gave up fulfilling its constitutionally mandated responsibility to reapportion the House — passing the Permanent Apportionment Act of 1929, which effectively capped representation at 435.
Since the Act was passed, the population has tripled, but the number of representatives has remained the same. In 1929, a representative served about 220,000 people in their district. Now that number is nearly 800,000 people per district.
As a result, Americans lack access to and accountability over Congress. This issue threatens the heart of self-government and requires the urgent attention of citizens and policymakers alike.
THE CASE FOR ACTION
Top Five Reasons why 435 is the wrong number.
Congress is supposed to provide oversight of the executive branch, yet the executive branch dwarfs the legislative branch — making proper oversight nearly impossible. As a result, Congress increasingly delegates its own responsibility.
Congress is overwhelmed.
2. Americans lack access to their representatives.
With nearly 800,000 constituents per member, meaningful contact between citizens and their elected officials has become vanishingly rare.
3. Americans lack accountability over their representatives.
Accountability requires access. Without it, representatives face little consequence for ignoring the concerns of ordinary citizens.
4. Lack of Representation Stifles Political Diversity.
The artificial cap on seats cements two-party rule, crowding out the political pluralism that democracy demands.
5. Under Representation fuels Hyper Partisanship.
A lack of genuine political representation leads to radicalization at the extremes — the predictable result of a system that leaves millions without a real voice.
It doesn’t have to be this way
You can take action. Join the coalition.
Our mission & Timeline
The goal for 2026 is to get America talking about this during the midterm elections. We need policymakers and voters who understand the responsibility of the moment.
The goal of Project No Cap is to secure Congress's repeal of the Permanent Apportionment Act of 1929 — before it is too late.