The Politics of Self-Interest: Why Candidates Shift Positions for Election, Then Harden in Office
In every election cycle, we witness political candidates pivot, adjust, or outright change their positions on key issues. These shifts, often framed as “evolving views,” aren’t just responses to new information — they are calculated moves to secure votes. Once elected, however, the same individuals frequently become rigid in their positions, unwilling to compromise or adapt. What drives this transformation? At its core, the answer lies in self-interest: the relentless pursuit of power.
The Shifting Sands of Campaign Promises
Running for office is a balancing act, where candidates must appeal to multiple constituencies — moderates, progressives, conservatives, and sometimes even disillusioned members of the opposing party. To do this effectively, candidates will tweak their messaging or outright change their positions. We’ve seen once pro-life candidates suddenly adopt pro-choice rhetoric, or staunch free-market proponents promise more government intervention when it suits their audience.
These pivots aren’t mistakes or moral growth; they are strategic. The primary goal of a candidate is to win, and the means to that end often include telling people what they want to hear. It’s not uncommon for voters to recognize the inconsistency…
