Why would politicians want to make tough decisions and upset special interest groups, after all, when there is going to be more revenue (or at least the expectation of more revenue)?

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On the day of the special election, Turner won in an upset with 54% of the vote, with Koch standing next to him while he gave his victory speech.

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So if they think the American people are upset about wasteful spending and paying close attention, the politicians will be less likely to upset voters by funneling money to special interests.

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But special elections are won and lost on turnout, and GOP operatives wisely sensed early on that an upset was possible if all of the planets aligned perfectly.

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In Indonesia Robert Gates, the defence secretary, upset human-rights activists and delighted the government by resuming links to Kopassus, the army's special forces.

ECONOMIST: Banyan