What type of representation involves voting based on what a representative believes is best for their constituency?

The correct answer is based on the concept of a trustee model of representation. In this model, representatives are entrusted to make decisions and vote according to what they believe is in the best interest of their constituents, even if those decisions might not align with the immediate preferences of the constituents. This approach assumes that the representative has a broader understanding of the issues and their implications, and it provides them the autonomy to exercise their judgment.

This contrasts with the delegate model, where representatives act strictly in accordance with the wishes of their constituents, reflecting an immediate and direct representation of the people's preferences. The trustee model emphasizes a more informed decision-making process where the representative utilizes their expertise and knowledge.

Caseworkers typically focus on helping constituents navigate government services rather than making legislative decisions, and patronage refers to the distribution of jobs or benefits in exchange for political support, which does not involve the model of legislative representation.