Congress: The Electoral Connection
"Congress: The Electoral Connection" is a concept introduced by political scientist David Mayhew in his book, which emphasizes the relationship between members of Congress and their electoral motivations. It argues that legislators primarily focus on activities that will help them get re-elected, such as constituent services, public appearances, and policy-making that aligns with voter interests.
The theory suggests that the structure of Congress encourages representatives to prioritize their electoral prospects over other responsibilities. This connection influences legislative behavior, as members often engage in strategic actions to enhance their visibility and appeal to their constituents, ultimately shaping the legislative process.