Bradley Charles Winston III, a member of Congress who represents a conservative district in rural Tennessee, says that the views of the majority in his district always shape his legislative votes. Still, recent polling suggests that a month after he voted against sending aid to pro-democracy groups in countries threatened by Russia and China, his voters would approve more extensive aid. The polling comes amid nonstop coverage of major anti-authoritarian protests worldwide.

Unfortunately, Winston recalled that he did not hear much from voters about aid earlier. He also recalled that supporters he consulted about aid had conflicting views. Consequently, he used his political gut feeling to vote against foreign group aid.

Which of the following statements describes something often true about lawmaking and public opinion that would best explain why Rep. Winston felt that he had to make a judgement call?