Final answer:
The term describing a representative's shift in focus to reelection efforts is often referred to as campaign-centric behavior or pork-barrel politics. Public opinion and the necessity to adapt to constituent expectations can significantly affect a representative's behavior, with a failure to do so leading to potential election losses. Historical precedent shows the challenging balance between responding to constituents and engaging in policy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that best describes the shift in focus for a representative who spends more time working towards reelection rather than promoting and passing good policy is often referred to as campaign-centric behavior or pork-barrel politics. The House of Representatives, with its frequent reelection needs, can be more susceptible to such behavior, potentially leading representatives to prioritize funding campaigns and retaining their seats over the welfare of their constituents. Representatives who are thought to follow the delegate model act on the expressed wishes of their constituents, while those who take a trustee model act on what they believe is in the best interests of their constituents. However, the pressure to be reelected and the ongoing need for campaign funds can create a tension that diverts their focus from effective policymaking to ensuring their own political survival.
Moreover, the influence of public opinion can play a significant role in the behavior of representatives. Shifting public expectations, based on liberal or non-liberal times, may force representatives to adapt their policies to match the public's current mood regarding social programs or austerity measures. Failure to adapt can result in a loss during the next election cycle, further intensifying the focus on reelection efforts over policy advancement.
Historically, balancing roles as part of a national legislative body and as a community representative has been possible, but growing concerns, such as those amplified by the Obamacare fight, suggest that representatives may be increasingly disconnected from their constituents' needs. This disconnection can exacerbate the focus on politically driven strategies, like living in offices in Washington to appear closer to home constituents, instead of genuine policy engagement.