Rosenthal’s Legislative Decision-Making: Core Factors and Case Studies

Which factor most often dominates legislative decisions?

Constituents, especially when an issue is salient and politically risky.

Why does the sales tax increase scenario result in a 'no' vote?

A strong constituency mandate against taxes overrides pro-education merits and interest group support.

Why do legislators support higher cigarette taxes in Scenario 3?

Public health merits align with the legislator's prior voting record and weak constituent opposition.

Why do optometrists prevail in the 'Eye Wars' scenario?

Constituents are indifferent, merits are plausible, and optometrists are organized supporters.

What principle summarizes the role of money in Rosenthal's cases?

Campaign money reinforces support but rarely changes deeply held beliefs.

Why is the voting-age reduction proposal defeated?

Benefits are speculative, risks are uncertain, and legislators default to avoidance.

Why is NJ's gas pump ban a strong Rosenthal example?

It shows constituent preference overriding weak policy merits.

What is the strongest argument against repealing the NJ gas pump ban?

Constituents overwhelmingly prefer full-service gas.

Why don't party positions drive the NJ gas issue?

Opposition to repeal is bipartisan.

How do interest groups affect the NJ gas ban?

Gas station owners and labor groups apply consistent, organized pressure against repeal.

Why don't efficiency or convenience arguments succeed regarding the NJ gas ban?

Benefits are diffuse, while political costs are immediate and concentrated.

What Rosenthal concept best explains why the NJ gas ban persists?

Constituency mandate + legislative risk avoidance.

Why is repeal of the NJ gas ban unlikely even if policy experts support it?

Legislators respond more to voter satisfaction than abstract efficiency.