Do our elected officials represent us? In one sense they do since they were duly selected in free elections. The beliefs they express, though, may not reflect the will of the voters. Studies show that current elected officials tend to have more extreme positions on issues, are focused on different issues, and are less civil than is desired by their constituents. How did this situation come about? If true, what are the implications for our government and political participation in the future? What can be done to better connect elected officials to the issues and approaches that are more in line with the electorate? This book analyzes these questions in thoughtful, articulate prose. It is interesting reading for enlightened citizens. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)