Surviving Inside Congress

by Mark N. Strand

Surviving Inside Congress provides essential and non-partisan educational information to new Congressional staff and fills in some gaps for those who are not so new to the Hill. Many books are written with advice for new Members of Congress, and no doubt they would benefit from this book. However, Surviving Inside Congress is the first publication of its kind to give staff detailed insight into what is expected and required of those who are the glue that holds the institution of Congress together. Most new members of Congressional staffs are ill equipped to the meet the diverse and critical needs of elected officials and their constituents. There are no comprehensive training programs, and no curriculum that adequately addresses the multiple roles they will play and functions they will perform. This is due in large measure to the uniqueness of these roles and the environment in which their work will be done. As a result, the academic credentials and professional experience they bring with them will have little relevance to the tasks they re about to undertake. Surviving Inside Congress tries to address these challenges. Although the first edition of Surviving Inside Congress addresses challenges that staff might face, Congress evolves so quickly, and the second edition reflects that fact. This new edition addresses many political events that have occurred since the first the passage of health care reform, the development of the Tea Party movement, and the 2010 Congressional elections, among others. Additionally, it includes more recent research on Congressional communications, especially in the field of new media and technology like tele-town halls. Perhaps most importantly, it includes a whole new chapter on Congressional polarization, describing its development and proposing remedies for it. All these additions will provide readers a unique perspective to help them understand and effectively respond to recent developments in American politics. Founded in 1987, the Congressional Institute, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)(4) corporation dedicated to helping Congress better serve its constituents and helping their constituents better understand the operations of the national legislature.

316 pages, Perfect Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Hannah Nachef · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely a must-read if you are planning on working on Capitol Hill (and I say this as someone currently working on the Hill). It gives a clear picture of the inner-workings of both houses, the differences, the legislative process (and its relevant actors), and the evolution of political vision in the legislative branch (granted, the book was last updated before 2016. I am curious to see how the narrative changes in light of the last election.) I do think the book is a little long, and if you have a background in business and strategic planning, there are some chapters you can skip. But overall, I learned a lot and enjoyed the read.

[Michael Woodmansee · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting overview of the inner workings of Congress for the uninitiated. Great references to material from the Congressional Institute.

[Michael Broomfield]

Not by the poet

[Aldric · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thorough primer to the world of Capitol Hill and introduction to working as a staffer. You could skip the parts about congressional history, but where's the fun in that? I think it tied everything together nicely and provided a compelling 'why' to the work, with a focus on currently relevant players and issues. More pertinent to DC staff than district staff, but I appreciate the way this guide frames our work, collectively as congressional staff, in context.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes this was tedious, but it is probably the most informative book out there for people interested in working as staff on the hill. I learned a few things and other ideas I had were confirmed or clarified. I am glad I read it and will use it as a reference.

[Roberto Haddad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, gives a good overview of the congressional process. As an incoming legislative assistant without any prior legislative work, this book was absolutely essential to understanding the process and helping me understand my job.

[Sue Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative. Learning how Congress is supposed to work.