What influences might cause a member of congress to vote agnist the wishes of the people from his/her district or county?
Us.government ^^
Consider this news from our newspaper this evening. Republican Congressman Fred Upton is known as a "nice guy," even to the Democrats of his district. He has generally voted for what he considers best for his moderate and largely rural district. Yet this article explains how he's being torn between two different political realities.
http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2010/11/republicans_debate_whether_con.html
Anything else more general?
When a member of Congress votes against the wishes of their constituents, it can be influenced by various factors. Here are a few possible reasons:
1. Personal Beliefs: Sometimes, a member of Congress may have strong personal convictions that differ from the majority opinion in their district. These beliefs can be shaped by their ideology, moral values, or principles, and they may vote accordingly, even if it contradicts popular sentiment.
2. Party Loyalty: Many members of Congress prioritize their allegiance to their political party over the wishes of their constituents. Parties often have specific policy goals and agendas, and members may feel pressured to vote in line with their party's stance, even if it goes against the preferences of their district.
3. Special Interest Influence: Lobbying groups or special interest organizations can exert significant influence over lawmakers. These groups often have connections, financial resources, and persuasive abilities to sway politicians. Members of Congress might vote against their constituents' wishes if they receive substantial support or campaign contributions from these interest groups.
4. Expert Opinions: Sometimes, elected officials rely on the advice of policy experts or think tanks to make informed decisions. These experts may recommend a course of action that differs from popular sentiment, as they bring specialized knowledge and analysis to complex issues. Consequently, the member of Congress might vote against their constituents based on these recommendations.
5. Long-term Interests: Lawmakers may also prioritize broader, long-term interests over the immediate needs of their district. They might believe that a certain policy, even if unpopular, is beneficial in the long run for the country as a whole, or for future generations, and therefore vote against the short-term wishes of their constituents.
It is important to note that not all members of Congress vote against the wishes of their constituents, and this explanation does not cover every possible scenario. Political decisions are influenced by a multitude of factors, and each situation is unique.