Why Do Members of Congress Use Moral Rhetoric, and How Did It Evolve?

• In Event: Communication and Rhetoric in Legislatures

Brief Overview

Moral rhetoric in Congressional tweets (113-117th) is mainly driven by electoral motivations (i.e., proximity to elections, and seat security). A rise in its use is observed, not primarily linked to Trump, but to cater to co-partisan supporters.

Authors

• Taegyoon Kim, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

• Ju Yeon Park, The Ohio State University