By voting.
find out how he or she voted on issues that are most important to you
Because if they do the electorate will punish them by never voting them in again.
Sarah Palin's leadership roles have been as Mayor and Governor primarily. Thus she has no voting record.
They bring in money and jobs
The citizens of the District of Columbia assisted by (numerically) a large number of Democrat lawmakers who wished to bring the majority Democrat-voting citizenry into Congress to give the Democrat Party another voting member.
They bring in money and jobs
Lobbying groups are political activists of sorts that negotiate with lawmakers. They represent specific industries or products and can use their members' clout and money to influence voting.
According to a recent poll, as of 2011, America is still split on gay marriage. It's safe to say that the lawmakers opposed to same-sex marriage are not 'destroying their careers' yet.
Follow the link below.
The most effective way for a citizen to influence congressional voting on legislation is to vote for a candidate who shares their views. They can also contact their representative to voice their opinions.
Money and Jobs.