Final answer:
Public opinion influences legislators with representatives altering their votes to align with the public mood and presidents using approval ratings to push policies, while the judiciary shows a more complex and subdued response to public sentiment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Public opinion plays a significant role in shaping legislators' actions and decisions. The theory of delegate representation suggests that legislators should act as the voice of the people, adhering to their constituents' preferences, which can be discerned through public opinion polling. Studies have demonstrated that shifts in public mood influence policy changes within institutions, although this influence varies among different branches of the government. For instance, representatives may alter their voting behavior to match public opinion, particularly due to their need to maintain voter support and campaign funding. Senators, enjoying longer terms between elections, can occasionally make more independent decisions but still must reconcile with voter preferences to ensure re-election. Furthermore, while the courts are generally less affected by public opinion due to lifetime appointments and independence from direct political pressures, high-profile cases might see some influence from the prevailing public sentiment.
Public opinion does not only impact election outcomes but also has a profound influence on policy decisions, as evidenced by historical shifts in governmental direction responding to public mood. Presidents may leverage high approval ratings to advocate for policies, as seen with Barack Obama's policy focus on the economy, jobs, and healthcare. Public opinion polls act not only as instruments for measuring consent but also importantly influence policymakers, encouraging them to propose solutions aligning with popular sentiment. Although the effect of public opinion on the judiciary is arguably less pronounced, it may still impact decisions, especially in cases that align with prevailing views among the populace.