Author Question: In 2010, the Department of Homeland Security provided Wyoming with over twice the funding per capita ... (Read 51 times)

genevieve1028 · **on:** Jul 10, 2018

In 2010, the Department of Homeland Security provided Wyoming with over twice the funding per capita to combat terrorism than more populous and vulnerable states like New York.

Despite the seeming misappropriation of PATRIOT Act funding, attempts to correct the distribution formula have floundered, as representatives from smaller states blocked amendments. Analyze this issue by considering the trustee model versus the delegate model of representation.

Question 2

Political rhetoric in campaigns often includes a challenger attempting to disparage the incumbent by labeling him or her a Washington insider. Does being an incumbent make a politician more or less effective or corrupt?

Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of incumbency on politicians and society.

chem1s3 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 10, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Define the trustee model as one where representatives are elected to do what they think is best for their constituents, taking into consideration a longer timeframe and broader national picture.
2. Define the delegate model as one where representatives are elected to do the bidding of the people who elected them.
3. Relate these models to the issue explaining that representatives in the smaller states are taking a delegate position to ensure the immediate needs of their constituents are met by providing money for jobs and extra security. Representatives in the smaller states do not have an incentive to take a trustee position, which might cause them to sacrifice the immediate gratification of their districts for the good of the nation.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Recall that incumbents are far more likely to win a given election: over a 90 percent average, even when Republicans retook control of the House.
2. List the advantages of incumbency, including: name recognition, credit claiming, free mail, casework, media access, campaign experience, and redistricting.
3. Note some pitfalls of incumbency that may be used to challenge an incumbent. This could include perceptions of ineffective performance, or perceived character flaws. Party affiliation can be important, such as in the 2010 election, when only 86 percent of House members were reelected. Democrats were viewed more skeptically in the 2010 election.
4. Make an argument on the value of being an incumbent