Network members reinforce each other's sense of issues as their interests, rather than interests defining positions on issues. Issue networks are shared-knowledge groups that have something to do with some aspect of public policy. Instead of power commensurate with responsibility, issue networks seek influence commensurate with their understanding of the various, complex social choices being made. There are three important advantages of the issue network system. The reliance on issue networks and policy politicians is consistent with some of the larger changes in society.
Ordinary voters are more attracted to an issue-based style of politics.
Issue networks link Congress and the Executive branch in ways that political parties no longer can. The new breed of congressional staff is not a legislative crony or beneficiary of patronage favors. The new bureaucrat is more likely to be someone skilled in dealing with certain complex policy issues, perhaps with credentials as a policy analyst, but certainly an expert in using other experts and their networks. Increased maneuvering room offered to political executives by the loose-jointed play of influence. If appointees were ambassadors from clearly defined interest groups and professions, or if policy were monopolized in iron triangles, then the chances for executive leadership in the bureaucracy would be small.