The period between a November election and the start of a new Congress is a whirlwind for congressional reporters. It's a race against time to understand the shifting political landscape, from election outcomes and leadership changes to the legislative scramble of the outgoing Congress. And for reporters like myself, a key challenge is getting to know the incoming lawmakers – their faces, names, backgrounds, and political leanings.
This year, with a new Congress convening on January 3rd, the learning curve is steep. The Senate has its share of familiar faces, with some House members moving to the upper chamber. High-profile races and well-known figures like Senator-elect Jim Justice, accompanied by his dog Babydog, simplify the learning process for some. However, the real task lies in familiarizing myself with the influx of new House representatives.
The House, with its 435 members, presents a daunting task. Sixty-two new representatives, plus non-voting delegates, are joining the ranks, and distinguishing between them can be tricky, especially for those who haven't been in the public eye. My strategy involves a rigorous memorization routine, using my daily workouts as study time. I review the roster of faces and names repeatedly during my elliptical and bike sessions, aiming to internalize the information.
Personal connections are invaluable, so I try to meet as many incoming members as possible. A chance encounter at a Capitol Hill establishment allowed me to connect with Congressman-elect Nick Begich III, whose family has a rich political history. These face-to-face interactions significantly aid the learning process.
Returning members, like former Representatives Marlin Stutzman and Cleo Fields, add another layer to the mix. Learning the names and pronunciations of delegates, such as Delegate-elect Kimberlyn King-Hinds from the Northern Mariana Islands, is also crucial. Distinctive features, like Delegate King-Hinds' floral headpiece or Representative Frederica Wilson's cowboy hat, can be helpful memory aids.
Mastering pronunciations is another hurdle. Names like Suhas Subramanyam, Abe Hamadeh, and Julie Fedorchak require careful attention. I've even enlisted colleagues to quiz me on names, backgrounds, and photos. While I've had some successes, there have been stumbles along the way. Mistaking Representative-elect Maxine Dexter's last name highlighted the ongoing nature of this learning process.
Ultimately, true understanding goes beyond rote memorization. It comes from observing these individuals in action – in the halls of Congress, during debates, in committee hearings, and through their voting records. This immersive experience is what truly allows us to grasp their roles and contributions within the complex political landscape.
