Which theory holds that elected representatives should vote to reflect the people's wishes rather than their own judgment?

• A. Theory of trustee representation
• B. Theory of delegate representation
• C. Democratic theory
• D. Republicanism

Answer: (B)

Delegates are elected to reflect the preferences of the people in their district when they vote. This idea, called delegate representation, treats representatives as mouthpieces of those who elected them, voting in line with constituents’ wishes and feedback rather than relying on their own personal judgments or analyses. It emphasizes responsiveness to public opinion, asking representatives to mirror what the voters want on each issue.

In contrast, trustee representation is the opposite approach: representatives use their own expertise and judgment to decide what they believe is best for the public, even if that means voting against the current wishes of their constituents. Democratic theory is the broad framework that says political power should derive from the people, but it doesn’t specify that every vote must follow public opinion; it can encompass multiple approaches to representation. Republicanism centers on governance based on virtue, the rule of law, and balanced institutions, rather than a strict requirement to follow public opinion in every decision.

So, the option that best fits voting to reflect the people’s wishes rather than personal judgment is delegate representation.