Why do members of the Congress vote as they do?

Answer 1

They're supposed to vote the will of their constituency. However, many vote straight (or very near straight) party lines. I think many of them are going to find out the folly of their actions in about 4 weeks.

Answer 2

In theory, congressmen (and women) will vote the will of their districts. Thus, if the Republicans come up with a good idea, Democrats will vote for it; if Democrats come up with a good idea, Republicans will vote for it. The reason: they have to be re-elected.

Alas, in today's world, it is really a question of power.

There is a tremendous amount of pressure put on members of Congress to vote "in lock step" as directed by Party leadership. The "key" to this pressure is power. In order to make a real difference, a congressman has to be on a committee where he believes his ideas can be submitted and brought to the floor for a final vote. The most powerful committee, for example, is the ways and means committee, which sets the budget. A New Jersey republican who votes against his party on various issues, while most interested in NAFTA and free trade issues to assist his industrial base, could be placed (for example) on the agriculture committee (for which he has no interest, and for which his constituents have even less interest). On the other hand, if he votes in lock-step, he might be put on the International Trade Committee and Ways and Means Committee.

Furthermore, as currently constituted, the House leadership has a rule that, even if a bill comes out of committee with bi-partison support (and the support of more than half of the members of Congress), it will not be allowed to come up for a vote unless a majority of REPUBLICANS support it.

Finally, speical interests, which contribute mightily to campaigns, would be less likely to provide money (for re-election and power) if the person votes against their interest.

So, what about the issue of re-election? Well, the fact is that historically, over 90% of the congress is re-elected, usually without much of a battle (safe districts, redistricting issues), so normally, provided the congressman has money in his campaign fund (see, special interests, above), the fear of voter retribution is usually small.

This year might be a little different due to widespread dissatisfaction with Republican handling of various issues and scandals ... but the difference will probably be smaller than people expect.

Answer 3

It is the best Congress that money can buy.

Answer 4

because they think that voting that way will get them re-elected

Answer 5

Usually for all the wrong reasons,,politics & greed.

Answer 6

money...money and more money!