As a simplifying assumption, David Mayhew's main point is that members of congress are determined re-election seekers. Reelection is the first political reality among members of Congress, as Mayhew states, followed by the spotlight being on members of Congress rather than the party they represent, and the struggle to gain and maintain power. In other words, if MPs want to have a successful career they must ensure they get re-elected. I agree with Mayhew that reelection is the primary concern for members of Congress and everything else, such as policymaking, falls behind. With this conviction Mayhew talks about the three strategies adopted by members of Congress: request for credit, taking a position and advertising. Credit Claim, Another example discussed in class is that Sarah Pailin took credit for “the bridge to nowhere.” (Class discussion) His constituents were happy because he brought something home even though it wasn't actually necessary, but voters see this as a sign that their congressman cares about them and is doing things that, according to Mayhew, ensure re-election; this is also a reason why the public loves their representative but hates congress as congress. For most members of Congress, the best position to take is a conservative one, Mayhew writes: "Probably the best position-taking strategy for most members of Congress in most cases is to be conservative: to hold on to one's positions of the past where possible and reach new ones with great caution where necessary (Mayhew, 67) If an MP takes such a liberal position he is bound to lose the support of some of his followers, even if there will always be new voters and new issues to deal with. to which the MP will have to adopt a conservative strategy and slowly move away.