Actually, most, not all, but certainly many pols across the political spectrum are actually fairly astute in judging the different angles to various issues - in private.
I had a chance to meet a Congressman from GA last year who is one of the more senior folks in the HASC. I was very impressed by his sincerity, his intellect and his humility with regard to his role. It was as part of a Inter-Agency Staff ride the the BSAP program puts on. This congressman was a veteran, and espoused genuine respect for the military. I'd never heard of him before, but I hope there are more like him. Somebody like that is actually inspiring.

Best, Rob