Using the uniquely advantageous case of the UK expenses scandal, we have provided new evidence as to why electoral accountability for representative misconduct may function imperfectly.
Second, in contrast to other studies which emphasise the critical role of publicly available information about the misconduct of representatives in assuring electoral accountability for representative misconduct (Chang et al., 2010), our findings point to the fact that electoral accountability can fail even in situations where a lack of information is not the main problem.
In contrast, the selection model of accountability presumes that representatives have self-motivated and exogenous reasons for carrying out the represented's wishes.
And, at some point in time, Democrats across America might start demanding accountability of those who call themselves Democratic representatives in Congress.
Amid such rancor, African-Americans might come to realize that the idea of having any politician as a role model is incompatible with accountability, the central tenet of representative democracy.
"Transparency and accountability are fundamental principles of representative government," said freshman Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon).
Only bodies that tie representatives into a structure of political accountability – of contestation and public deliberation – can claim to have institutionalised political equality and protected individuals' dignity.
Excusing individuals at the highest levels of government from adhering to the rule of law, whether in wartime or not, is a dangerous precedent, for it undercuts the principle of accountability which permeates representative democracy".
The challenge is to develop or strengthen accountability of those who decide and act, whether they are local politicians, bureaucrats or community representatives.
A wider range of professions might be included under AHPRA and representative bodies strengthened to improve the level of registration and accountability of health professionals.
