Temperament: Some are willing to take risks other play it safe
little/no direct effect on their constituents
Controversial issues
Congressional staffers influence decisions because they research information a lawmaker sees on an issue.
Most important influences in order:
Lawmaker will follow people in their districts want
Pay attention to key supporters who contribute: people who vote rain or shine, work on campaigns and/or contribute money
Democrats and republicans tend to vote with their parties because they share the same political outlook
Economic issues: party members tend to vote together
Foreign policy: weaker as parties do not have a fixed position
Some issues party leaders put pressure on members to vote according to the party position
Leaders of the opposing party often vote against the president’s program and makes it a political issue
President tries to influence Congress to get his legislation passed
Lobbyists: representatives of interest groups
Lobbying: efforts to persuade officials to support their point of view
Lobbyists represent lots of different groups
Lobbyists use many methods to influence Congress
Political Action Committee (PAC): Fundraising organization established by corporations, labor unions and other special interest groups