This is the hardest piece of this site. What we are trying to determine is how someone thinks. Their motivations and leanings are indicated by their votes. But what about the situation where a bill has both positive and negative aspects to it? Senate Bill 1805 in March of last year was a good example. It was loaded up with gun control measures before it was finally voted on. A vote for the bill would also have been a vote for the extension of the 1994 Assault Weapon Ban. So, was a vote against 1805 for gun owners or against gun owners? And was a vote for 1805 for gun owners or against? Many gun owners would not accept the amendments and so demanded a vote against. So, was a vote against 1805 a vote for gun owners. Not necessarily.

When examining the voting records of our legislators, do not look at a single vote. Look at the career as a whole. And watch for changes in behavior. Senator Dole's record, when it is completed, will show a shift from pro-gun to anti-gun rights. Also examine what types of legislation they sponsor. The career, as a whole, will tell you what you need to know.