Partisans, Proximates, and Poker Players: The Impact of Homophily and Proximity on Communication Patterns of State Legislators

This study examined interpersonal communication patterns among 70 of 149 members in the New York State Assembly. The average member spoke frequently with about 22% of his or her colleagues, less frequently to another 44%, and virtually never to the remaining third of the membership. Shared membership in political party had the strongest relationship to communication patterns (which colleagues a member communicated with) followed by regional delegation. Seat proximity and shared committee membership showed weaker relationships, and office proximity and gender were of little influence. In general, homophilous attributes were more important than proximity factors in influencing frequency of communication. Moreover, homophily creates proximity, through meetings of party conferences, regional delegations, and groups such as the Women's Caucus.