Why One Lawmaker Went Along with the Shutdown

The Raleigh News and Observer looks at why Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-NC) agreed to hold the line with her party and force a government shutdown.

“So if Ellmers has anything to fear politically, it is a primary challenge from her right. The pressure will always come from party conservatives urging her to take the most conservative position, to never compromise with Democrats.”

“It is the same situation in congressional districts all across the country, where gerrymandering has caused political silos. There is no incentive for members of Congress to compromise or to work together. But there is constant pressure to take the most strident, ideological positions.”