[gcb]

If this is real, it's a great example of why this kind of government is way overdue.

millions of people affected by some law, 0.01

one retired guy pissed of by something minor, but that happens to live close by, 700

[chimeracoder]

Not exactly. The person would have to be a constituent, so he would live no further than any other people in the district.

You could make a statement about wealth and lobbying, but to be honest, those are considered in a different category anyway.

It's actually rather accurate. If someone takes the time to write a handwritten letter and mail it, it means a lot more than just clicking a DemandProgress button that has all of your personal information pre-populated. The Internet lowers the cost (effort) of communication, but on the other hand, the non-material cost is a way of showing that the issue is important to you.

[gcb]

"in-person visit to DC office" at the top of the list

[chimeracoder]

Yes, but only constituents' opinions are relevant, and all constituents must live within the district.