4.4 FRQ

One of the most cherished safeguards of liberty in our government [is]—the right of a political minority to have a voice. Until now, this has always been the defining characteristic of the Senate. That’s why all senators have traditionally defended the Senate as an institution, because they knew that the Senate was the last legislative check for political minorities and small states against the kind of raw exercise of power large states and majority parties have always been tempted to wield.

—Senator Mitch McConnell

Describe the viewpoint expressed in the quote.

In the context of the passage, explain how the structure of the Senate protects liberty.

Explain why the Senate has been criticized as being undemocratic.