Who wants descriptive representation, and why?

Amid growing evidence of the under-representation of marginalised groups and the lack of responsiveness to their concerns, calls for improved descriptive representation have intensified. While such reforms may serve the broader public interest, their implementation lies with political elites. We therefore examine how legislators in the United States and Germany view the importance of descriptive representation. Using original survey data, we analyse opinions on representation regarding gender, age, class, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. We hypothesise that preferences for descriptive representation are linked to support for progressive policies and are stronger among left-leaning parties. We also expect that intersectionality shapes these preferences, with disadvantaged legislators more supportive of representation across groups. Our findings reveal clear partisan divides: left-leaning parties show more support, and women across most parties favour broader representation, not just for women but for other marginalised groups. Men in right-wing parties are the least supportive.