by Jennifer E. Manning from the Congressional Research Service
Dated September 17, 2015
Summary
This report presents a profile of the membership of the 114th Congress (2015-2016). Statistical information is included on selected characteristics of Members, including data on party affiliation, average age, occupation, education, length of congressional service, religious affiliation, gender, ethnicity, foreign births, and military service.
As of September 17, 2015, in the House of Representatives, there are 248 Republicans (including 1 Delegate), 193 Democrats (including 4 Delegates and the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico), and no vacancies. The Senate has 54 Republicans, 44 Democrats, and 2 Independents, who both caucus with the Democrats.
The average age of Members of the House at the beginning of the 114th Congress was 57.0 years; of Senators, 61.0 years. The overwhelming majority of Members of Congress have a college education. The dominant professions of Members are public service/politics, business, and law. Most Members identify as Christians, and Protestants collectively constitute the majority religious affiliation. Roman Catholics account for the largest single religious denomination, and numerous other affiliations are represented.
The average length of service for Representatives at the beginning of the 114th Congress was 8.8 years (4.4 terms); for Senators, 9.7 years (1.6 terms).
One hundred eight women (a record number) serve in the 114th Congress: 88 in the House, including 4 Delegates, and 20 in the Senate. There are 46 African American Members of the House and 2 in the Senate. This House number includes two Delegates. There are 38 Hispanic or Latino Members (a record number) serving: 34 in the House, including 1 Delegate and the Resident Commissioner, and 4 in the Senate. A record 14 Members (11 Representatives, 2 Delegates, and 1 Senator) are Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders. Two American Indians (Native Americans) serve in the House.
The portions of this report covering political party affiliation, gender, ethnicity, and vacant seats will be updated as events warrant. The remainder of the report will not be updated.
