Often times it is so difficult that it becomes a 'do or die' game. Running for office and staying there becomes personal. So much so, that it isn't uncommon to be courted by higher ranking members of political parties. This is how fair warning for repercussions occurs. This is what often times happens behind the scenes of the political machine. It is the give and take methodology to holding public office. However, the message may seem simple, a politician either does what they are told, or risks losing it all. For many in politics, it becomes difficult to maintain a "no strings attached" philosophy to governing when being a member of the political machine. Breaking away is risky. Although it is the political reformer who is able to break the ties that binds politicians. These are the politicians, the modern day Abraham Lincolns that are able to hold to an oath. For the very few in public office that follow this way of thinking, this is what is known as the solemn vow.