"Whether you are from Minnesota, Wisconsin or any other Northern tier state, you are not going to like the reimbursement formula. The problem we face is that we wouldn't have that formula if a majority of the states didn't like it, and they have the majority of the votes"

This quote by David Obey is describing a compensation formula that is not preferred by those from the Northern tier states. Obey is pointing out that most of states have actually voted in support of the formula, which is why it remains in place. He is suggesting that the Northern rate states are not mosting likely to more than happy with the formula, however they are in the minority as well as consequently can not transform it. Obey is emphasizing the relevance of the bulk in this situation, and how it can be challenging for the minority to have their voices listened to. He is also highlighting the relevance of understanding the voting process and just how it can affect the result of particular choices.