Tips for Coordinating Legislative Events

When you are involved in a legislative event, it can be helpful to understand a few key tips that can help things to go much more smoothly. First, introductions to policymakers should be brief. Lobbyists often make the mistake of speaking too long in introductions while attempting to do a suitable job. An effective introduction … Read more

Understanding Advanced Statements for Congressional Witnesses

Preparing to testify before Congress can require a significant amount of preparation on the part of the witness. When you are invited to testify before Congress, it is important to understand the advance preparations that must be made and the rules and requirements related to those preparations. photo credit: Daquella manera Committee rules and guidelines … Read more

Understanding “Congressional Culture”

“Congressional culture” is comprised of a mix of youthful staff, optimistic freshman members, cynical reporters, seasoned members, and crusty senators. This can often result in a clash of both the old and new. photo credit: Mr. T in DC In evaluating congressional culture, it is important to understand the working environment of Congress. That environment … Read more

The Role of Ideology in Persuading Congress

The first time most congressional candidates make the decision to run for Congress, they do so, at least in part, because of their ideology. Generally, they hold some beliefs they are interested in pursuing in the public policy arena. Those beliefs may be characterized as liberal, conservative, libertarian, or the candidate’s own unique ideology. photo … Read more

The Constitution of the United States, Article. I. Section. 4. Elections, Meetings

The United States Constitution Article. I. (The Legislative Branch) Section. 4. (Elections, Meetings) Note: Article I, section 4, was modified by section 2 of the 20th amendment. The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any … Read more