Why do some states have more Representatives than others?

The number of Representatives each state has in the House of Representatives is determined primarily by the population of that state. The U.S. Constitution mandates that congressional representation be apportioned based on the population, which is assessed every ten years through the census. States with larger populations are allocated more Representatives, reflecting the principle of proportional representation. This ensures that the voices of more populous states are adequately represented in the federal legislature, while states with smaller populations receive fewer Representatives.

While factors such as economic wealth, the number of senators, and the date of statehood might influence a state's overall influence or resources, they do not play a direct role in determining the number of Representatives. The key factor is the state's population, which is the basis for representation in Congress.