More like a string of dominos. A little pressure on one end can be felt all along the line. Especially when each domino is beholding, and trying to please, to the next one up the line.
When you're a state level bureaucrat, in a shitty place, contact from someone far up the line, can be flattering and spark hope of recognition/reward for favors. Very important in the un-elected world of political appointments.
The bottom line is, I don't trust the fuckers and want as much transparency as possible with a secret ballot.
btw, here's an article on how the votes were counted in 1936.
http://blog.modernmechanix.com/2008/...0000000-votes/