Explain why the federal government might sometimes create policies that run counter to public opinion, especially given how difficult it is to create policy in the first
place?

The federal government's primary objective is to ensure the common good, prioritizing this over the popular will if it is contrary to the common good and relevant national interests, such as national security, the fight against terrorism or the economic direction of the nation.

Thus, if any of these issues is legislated, the federal government will carry out these policies protecting what the officials consider most beneficial or protective for the common of American society, as was the case with the Patriot Act, which was carried out. carried out despite the resistance of many citizens.

the  seven  days  battles  were  a series of seven battles over seven  days from june 25 to july 1, 1862, near richmond, virginia,  during  the american civil war. the  seven  days ended with mcclellan's army in relative safety next to the james river, having suffered almost 16,000 casualtiesduring  the retreat.