Dear Constituents,

Despite Senator Jones' recent invitation to support a bill for his state and promising to bring federal grant money to our state, I have decided to keep my word in agreeing to speak at the Farm Bureaus annual meeting. I promised senator jones that I would help him in other ways in the future. I know this was negatively received; however, I believe that it is important to honor your commitments.

I also would like to speak regarding the incident of me receiving a check from a lobbyist while at dinner. It was a desperate attempt to help the industry development I inhibited by declining Senator Jones' offer. I had the best interest of our state in mind and I realize now that I cannot do such things. In a more favorable effort to benefit our state, I have decided to vote on increasing the income tax. The extra revenue received from this tax raise will come back to our state, among others, because of our delicate economic situation. The raise will affect higher tax brackets and those of you in lower tax brackets will not notice much of a change.

I have decided to not support bill reversing the Brady Bill. I understand that many of you are members of the NRA and would like to be able to purchase guns without background checks; however, this is a very important safety precaution and I am sure that those of you looking to purchase guns will pass these background checks.

In conclusion, I have lost my bid for reelection. After four successful years of serving my state, I have finally been outvoted and am glad to give up my position to the incoming Sentor. 

Sincerely, Senator Smith

a. Did you agree with the outcome of your simulation experience? Why or why not?

Yes, I upset a lot of people in the course of my decision making. I understand why voters would choose another person over me after having me for four years.

1. b. What might have changed the outcome?

If I voted for what I knew would get votes rather than what I believed to be the best decision, then I would have had more votes (e.g. the NRA bill).

1. c. How do the scenarios compare to the local politics of your congressional district?

The implications of each scenario are similar to the cause and effect of any political decision making. If I make an unfavorable decision, voters will respond to me unfavorably.

1. d. What do you feel has the greatest impact on the election results- local or national issues? And why?

1. National issues have an impact on the nation as a whole and thus affect a larger portion of people.

1. e. How do local issues affect the ability of Congress make national decisions?
2. 
   
3. Congress has to consider the impact of their decisions upon voters in isolated populations.