Final answer:
Senator Edward Kennedy's remark about the best Congress money can buy likely refers to the influence of money in U.S. politics and raises questions about the relationship between financial contributions and legislative behavior. His statement points to concerns about potential corruption and the significant advantages incumbents possess in seeking reelection. It underscores deep-seated issues related to campaign finance and the efficacy of Congressional representation.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Senator Edward Kennedy remarked that we "have the best Congress money can buy," he was likely alluding to the influence of money in politics, particularly how financial contributions may affect the actions and decisions of members of Congress. The context implies a critique of the possibility that legislators might prioritize the interests of their donors over the constituents they represent. This issue touches on the broader themes of campaign finance, the power of incumbency, and concerns about political corruption or at least the perceived impact of money on legislative behavior.
A significant aspect of this is the structural design of Congress, which encourages reelection campaigns that are heavily funded, often giving an advantage to incumbents. Taking note of how members of Congress have access to vast resources for their reelection, including staff, budget allocations, and allowances, it becomes evident why the institutional setup supports elected officials who have the means to maintain their office. Issues like pork-barrel politics and the implications of the delegate vs. trustee models of representation further illustrate the complexities of Congressional actions and motivations.
Understanding this, it becomes clear why some citizens may hold negative views about the congressional body as a whole, while still supporting their individual representatives, and reflects the sentiment of 'all politics being local', as individual members of Congress focus on immediate local concerns relevant to their constituencies.