What is the primary link between Congress and the constituents?

The primary link between Congress and constituents is casework. Casework refers to the assistance that congressional representatives provide to individual constituents facing issues with government services or policies. This could involve helping a constituent navigate federal agencies, resolving issues related to social security, veterans' benefits, immigration, and other federal matters.

By engaging in casework, members of Congress demonstrate their responsiveness to the needs of their constituents, thereby fostering a personal connection and trust. This direct interaction often leads to constituents feeling more engaged with their representative and the legislative process, reinforcing the idea that Congress members are indeed accountable to the people they serve.

While legislation creation, national policy implementation, and public communications are also essential functions of Congress, they represent broader functions that do not capture the direct and personal nature of the link established through casework. Casework emphasizes the day-to-day relationship between representatives and their constituents, highlighting how congressional members can impact individual lives beyond the legislative process.