Overview

The Center on Congress at Indiana University produces a series of commentaries by Director Lee Hamilton. In these commentaries, Hamilton draws on his 34 years of experience as a United States Representative from the Ninth District, Indiana, and explains the important function of Congress in our system of representative democracy. The commentaries listed below specifically describe some accomplishments of notable members of Congress and explain the many roles of a member of Congress. Also in these commentaries, Hamilton examines the qualities of a good politician.

Keep in Touch explains that in order to be an effective representative, a member of Congress must not only keep in close touch with constituents back home, but also must seek power and influence in Washington on their behalf. Hamilton says that inevitably, this means that to do the job right, a member of Congress will have to temper his or her local orientation.

Why Political Virtue Matters explains that our Republic functions best when people choose leaders who aren't in politics for power or partisan domination. The Founders, Hamilton says, felt that elected officials should overcome self-interest and act for the benefit of the common good. Also, they felt that voters have a responsibility to educate themselves, to discern insincerity and reject misinformation, and to enter the voting booth prepared to set aside self-interest and do what's best for the whole country.

Whose Team Should a Member of Congress Be On? outlines the gaggle of competing interests that every member of Congress must consider: party leaders, campaign contributors, lobbyists, constituents, and so on. But a member's most important responsibility, Hamilton says, is to think and act for himself.

Influential Members of Congress describes some members of Congress who have made a significant impact on the lives of Americans. In addition to praising these individuals, Hamilton credits Congress for being an institution where Americans express themselves in all their diversity, and come to some agreement on what to do about the problems of the day.

The Job of a Congressman describes a typical workday for a member of Congress. Hamilton explains that few Americans understand how much behind-the-scenes work goes into being an effective legislator.

Is Congress Trustworthy? notes the view prevalent among many Americans that members of Congress often aren't truthful. Hamilton explains that members may appear to be inconsistent because they are often struggling publicly with complex issues, forming their opinions while bills change shape as they wind their way through the legislative process.

The Frustrations of Congress describes the many aggravations that members of Congress experience when trying to do their job. Hamilton explains why members tolerate the hassles and in some cases remain in office for decades.

The Rewards of Public Service poses this question: Given that candidates for Congress must endure grueling campaign schedules, a seemingly endless string of fundraisers, personal attacks from opponents, and other such unpleasantries, why do people seek the job? Hamilton explains the factors that motivate people to enter the fray.

What Makes a Good Politician? describes some of the qualities that good politicians possess. Hamilton says they know how to listen, build support for an idea, and accommodate others' points of view without betraying their core beliefs.

Why Politicians are Good For Your (Country's) Health suggests that when deciding for whom to vote, citizens should look not only at candidates' views on issues, but also at their skills as politicians. Hamilton says that good politicians are able to reconcile competing points of view and forge consensus for action. They are vital to the healthy functioning of our democracy.

Clicking on any commentary title will direct you to a screen with the text of that essay. You can hear a shorter version of the commentary, recorded by Hamilton, by clicking on the LISTEN TO THE RADIO VERSION OF THIS ARTICLE link. If you wish to print the commentary without frames, click on PRINTABLE PAGE.