Covering Congress: A Journalist’s Guide to the Post-Election Rush
The Post-Election Rush
Every two years, the period between the November election and the start of the new Congress is a whirlwind for reporters covering Congress. It’s a time of uncertainty as they try to determine who won and who lost. Meanwhile, the existing Congress is back in session, working to prevent a government shutdown and pushing through major legislation. Leadership elections are also taking place, with new faces stepping into prominent roles.
The Challenge of Learning
For journalists, time management becomes a challenge during this period. With so much happening, they must use the time between elections and the start of the new Congress to learn as much as possible about the incoming lawmakers. It’s a time-consuming process, as they need to familiarize themselves with the faces, biographies, and pronunciations of a large number of rookies.
The Adventure of Learning
While some incoming senators may be well-known due to their previous positions or competitive races, the real adventure lies in getting to know the new House Members. With 435 people in the House, many faces are obscure, especially those who didn’t face challenging races. The journalist’s mission is to learn them all.
A Daily Workout Routine
To accomplish this, the journalist adopts a daily routine. They go through the list of faces and names of the entire House roster multiple times, using their morning workout as an opportunity to study. Some names stand out due to their prominence or political history, making them easier to remember. The journalist also tries to meet as many members of the freshman class in person as possible, as it helps with memorization.
Returning Members and Delegates
In addition to learning the newcomers, there are also former members returning to Congress. Their presence adds another layer of complexity. Furthermore, delegates from non-state territories, such as the Northern Mariana Islands, bring their own unique challenges. Recognizing them becomes easier if they have distinctive features or accessories, like Rep. Frederica Wilson’s cowboy hat.
The Pronunciation Puzzle
Pronunciations can be particularly tricky. Some names are straightforward, while others require practice. The journalist enlists the help of a colleague to test their knowledge and match photos with names. It’s a learning process, and the occasional stumble is expected. However, each mistake serves as a valuable lesson.
Learning Through Observation
Ultimately, the best way to truly learn the members of Congress is through direct interaction. Seeing them in the halls, chatting with them in the Speaker’s Lobby, conducting interviews, and observing their performances in hearings and on the floor all contribute to a deeper understanding of who they are as lawmakers.
Conclusion
Covering Congress during the post-election rush is a challenging yet exciting task for journalists. It requires dedication, time management, and a commitment to learning the names, faces, and backgrounds of the incoming lawmakers. Through persistence and firsthand experience, they gain a comprehensive understanding of the members and their roles in Congress.
