Author Question: Why did the Framers provide for the selection of senators by state legislatures? What electoral ... (Read 78 times)

folubunmi · **on:** Jul 10, 2018

Why did the Framers provide for the selection of senators by state legislatures?

What electoral reform did the Seventeenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution bring about? As a result of its adoption, do you think U.S. senators are more or less likely to closely monitor their constituents' opinions on a range of political issues?

Question 2

In what ways are those who answer mail or Internet surveys different from the general electorate?

What will be an ideal response?

wuly · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 10, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Explain that the Framers were concerned that the Senate would be negatively influenced by the whims of the public and sought to isolate the Senate from the influence of public opinion by have state legislatures select senators.
2. Explain the change provided by the Seventeenth Amendment: Senators are no longer appointed by state legislators, but instead are voted in by citizens in state elections.
3. Assess whether this makes senators more or less likely to heed public opinion.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Distinguish people who answer mail surveys from the general electorate, including the distinction that people answering mail surveys are more likely to be wealthier, more educated, and care more about issues than the general electorate.
2. Discuss the significance of self-selection and voluntary participation on the outcomes of public opinion polling.
3. Note that mail and Internet surveys are straw polls.