Most elected politicians struggle within themselves internally.  This is a result of "multiple" loyalties and biased views. Each politician has his or her own personal view of each issue.   Each politician is "representing" constituents, i.e., the people from her or his voting district.   Each politician, normally, is a member of a political party which pushes a "party view" on any given issue.   Last - but certainly not least - each politician has "campaign backers" who have contributed real money to have their view favored.   Oh, and don't forget - all of those paid, professional lobbyists who continually pressure the elected politician with the bias of their client.   Not to mention that none of the above are necessarily the "right thing to do." It is virtually impossible for these different views be consistent.  There is usually no "easy way" out.  On the other hand, very few politicians take the most difficult path.   Compromise is the name of the game.  Unfortunately, it is too often not compromise as in "bipartisanship" agreements, but compromise with ethics and integrity.