Reviews

"Arnold's analysis of congressional decision making is sensible and perceptive. . . . At the same time, Arnold's analysis of congressional action is insightful and welcome. And, in the concluding chapter, he presents a highly sensitive and subtle exposition of the conditions under which citizens can exercise some control of their government."—Samuel C. Patterson, Perspectives on Political Science


"Arnold's model clarifies the relationship between a legislator's voting behaviour and his/her expectations regarding constituency preferences and expectations. His approach is unique in that it emphasizes anticipated policy outcomes and preferences, as well as past policy decisions."—Daniel McCool, Political Studies


"An outstanding piece of work. This is the most important book of its kind since Mayhew's Congress: The Electoral Connection was published fifteen years ago. Arnold's work generates an abundance of fresh insights into legislative politics and expands and enriches our understanding of how the 'electoral connection' works. The book fills a serious gap in the theoretical literature on Congress, and it does so clearly, elegantly, and persuasively. It will immediately achieve the status of a book that every serious student of Congress and of public policy has to know."—Gary C. Jacobson, author of Money in Congressional Elections and coauthor of Strategy and Choice in Congressional Elections


"This will be one of the most influential books on Congress—and hence, on American politics—for the next ten years. It is a very sophisticated book by someone who understands politics and who has original, important things to say about the relationship between politicians and citizens."—Richard F. Fenno, Jr.


"No student of Congress can ignore this work. In the genre of rational-actor analysis, it presents the most interesting and textured account to date of congressional policy making."—David Mayhew