[publius911]

Is he supposed to represent the desires of the constituents of his district or the desires of hard right folks across the nation?

In California, that's a tough call.
The corruption of power, greed, ignorance and gibesmedat of the majority of voters makes any attempt to avoid the State's death spiral almost useless.

Perhaps he should simple see he gave it his best shot and let someone more persuasive and knowledgeable take over.

[joesbucks]

I think that’s a great answer. He’s got to lead and be persuasive, but at the end of the day he is to represent the district and their desires.