Good post, but I’d also point out that the workings of the U.S. Senate are very different than the House. It’s much easier to be a principled conservative in the House because gerrymandered districts are easier to defend as a candidate. This is how you end up with some of the most conservative House members representing districts in some very “blue” states.
Shhhh... a major talking point of anti-17thers on FR is to claim that there's "no difference" between the House and the Senate since the 17th amendment passed, and "we might as well abolish the Senate" if they don't get their way and change it back to politicians appointing Senators for us.
Shame on you for using facts to demonstrate otherwise. ;-)