American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the primary purpose of the census as indicated in the US Constitution?

1. Distribution of federal funds to local governments

2. Fair apportionment of House seats among states

3. Determining state populations for local elections

4. Conducting demographic studies for urban planning

The correct answer is: Fair apportionment of House seats among states

The primary purpose of the census as indicated in the US Constitution is to ensure the fair apportionment of House seats among the states. This function is outlined in Article I, Section 2, which mandates that the population count be conducted every ten years to determine the number of representatives each state is entitled to in the House of Representatives. This process is essential for maintaining a representative democracy, as it allows for an equitable distribution of political power based on population changes. This constitutional mandate underscores the importance of an accurate census in reflecting shifts in population due to migration, birth rates, and other factors. The results of the census can significantly impact political representation and influence federal funding allocations based on population size. The other options, while they may relate to data from the census or its applications, do not represent its primary constitutional purpose. For example, while the census data can inform the distribution of federal funds to local governments and assist with demographic studies for urban planning, these are secondary outcomes rather than the main constitutional goal. Similarly, determining state populations for local elections is not specified in the Constitution as a primary function of the census. Thus, the emphasis on fair apportionment serves as the key constitutional objective behind conducting a census in the United States.