Be An Advocate

Why Legislators Vote the Way They Do

Legislators are individuals who try to be responsive to their constituencies. They want to get re-elected. Understand the legislator’s position – constituents, personal inclinations, political philosophy, party dictates, promises made, and other factors.

There are many influences at work:

• Constituency interest as determined by letters, phone calls, surveys and polls.
   
• Opinions of other legislators.
   
• The stance of the party caucus.
   
• The administration’s stance (Governor or President)
   
• Lobbyists and special interest groups.
   
• Campaign workers and contributors.

You are less likely to make assumptions if you recognize these points. If a legislator opposes your position this time, that same legislator may support a later effort of yours. Be tenacious, but be respectful and understanding of the influences at work in every position or vote taken.