The simple fact is that whenever a member of either party gets elected to a position in Congress they will conform to the Party Line.

I've know a lot of southern Democrats who thought of themselves as "Conservative Democrats" who were quickly whipped into line when they arrived in Washington. (I haven't known many people who thought of themselves as "Liberal Republicans.")

The Party Leaders have a variety of ways of rewarding "good" behavior and punishing "bad" behavior. It starts with the assignment of office space and a parking space. It goes on to the very vital distribution of financial assistance in re-election campaigns. It also includes assignment to Committees and Sub-Committees. Some carry prestige; others do not.

THAT is why it is nonsense to say you vote for the individual, regardless of Party. Party membership will determine how the candidate will vote after being elected.


Carl in Tampa

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