Given the many different methods of communication that are available today and the significant increase in pending legislation in congress, it is a challenge to choose the best method for connecting with policymakers. During the last ten years, the amount of communications between constituents and Congress has increased dramatically, due primarily due to the Internet. … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Recede: Motion by one chamber to withdraw from its previous position during amendments between the chambers. Recede and Concur: Motion to withdraw from a position and agree with the other chamber’s position. Recede and Concur with an Amendment: Motion to withdraw from a position and … Read more
“The Podestas Face Tough Questions About Lobbying,” by Marc Ambinder, The Atlantic, October 1, 2010 From Lobbying and Advocacy, by Deanna Gelak: §1.1 Introduction Nearly every legislative day, thousands of lobbyists are watching, monitoring, and working to influence the outcome of legislation at the federal level. Simultaneously, lobbyists are presenting hundreds of testimonies and briefings … Read more
Legislative history involves the proceedings in Congress that relate to a law before it was actually enacted. This can include official reports prepared by congressional committees as well as official statements that are issued by members of Congress. Legislative history may also include testimony given at legislative hearings, and different versions of the text of … Read more
If you have been called to testify before a Congressional hearing or think that you might be called to do so in the future, it can be helpful to have a basic understanding of the various types of Congressional hearings and their purposes. photo credit: Tarter Time Photography The main purpose of any Congressional hearing … Read more
There are many different tools that can be used for interacting with the media and the public. One of those tools is the op-ed. An op-ed piece, when it is written well can be one of the most effective as well as persuasive tools at your disposal. Effective op-ed pieces can help influence the outcome … Read more
Election 2010: Capitol Hill Workshop: Intensive 3-day course following the 2010 Elections Capitol Hill Workshop: 2010 Election is of particular interest to anyone needing more background on how Capitol Hill really works and who needs early insight into the 112th Congress and the administration. You will leave this workshop with a solid understanding of: Congressional … Read more
The press release is frequently used as an important tool in public relations. The main goal of a press release is to persuade reporters to do a story on an issue that is important to you. A press release is even more important today than in the past because of the increased use of web … Read more
When it comes to politics in Washington, most PR people continually operate in crisis mode. This is because it can seem as though there is always a fire to put out, a crisis to manage or preparing to handle a crisis. The way in which you prepare for a crisis often determines how well your … Read more
The United States Constitution The War and Military Establishment Clauses are among Congress’ enumerated powers found in the Constitution of the United States, Article. I. Section. 8., clauses 11, 12, 13, and 14: Obama’s Unprecedented War Powers Claims (Clause 11 – War power) [The Congress shall have Power] To declare War, … Read more