I think this story is trying to spell out the wrong image. They weren't "bought with a few trinkets and autographs". They were "intimidated or outright threatened, and then given stuff to make it seem like it wasn't so awful". If you know anyone that has been in an abusive relationship, then you know that flowers showing up at the office is not a positive sign.
Don't get me wrong. They are still absolute trash for voting for this bill. But don't act like they were given a net positive experience being put through the ringer like this.