The factors which influence a Member s voting decisions are not a matter of science but of individual and varied circumstances. Policy arguments do not always persuade. Political pressures are often withstood. Campaign contributions are not always rewarded. Public opinion is always gauged but not always followed.
Members consult their consciences, but sometimes cede to the majority perspective.
The decision-making process that precedes casting a vote is often lengthy and complex and known fully only to the Member going through it. And as they vote, each Member knows that in our democracy they alone will be held accountable for the decision they are about to make. Search the Capitol Questions Archive Enter a word or simple phrase in the box above.