interesting article. ultimately, they have to represent their voters - which is why Manchin is going to be more conservative than the average Dem, he represents voters in a more conservative state. This is also why some Republicans from blue states are called "RINOs" - they are more liberal than the average Republican because they represent a blue state. The fire-breathers on the right can't stand them, but they are doing what they were elected to do - represent their voters.

The other factor is principle. Sometimes a politician genuinely believes that something is good for the country. Sinema may be one of those people. McCain was one of them. So is Bernie Sanders and Liz Cheney. I do tend to have more respect if they are bucking their party based on principle, even if I disagree with them. Given some of the intimidation Sinema has had to deal with (following her to the restroom? Really?) I wonder if she might not be taking a principled stand.

I hadn't considered the lobbyist angle, but you could be right, and that could be what is going on.

Again, not saying I agree with her, but she might not be voted out. Biden is horribly unpopular after all. And incumbents tend to have an advantage unless they are truly terrible. I need to look up her voting record... now I'm curious!