On Monday, I headed to Washington, DC. During a plane change in Phoenix, I discovered that two members of Congress were on my connecting flight. We talked briefly about Thanksgiving and what they expected to face on Capitol Hill this week. When we arrived at Reagan National (DCA), I headed toward the taxi stand, but the two members insisted that I ride with them to the Capitol.
One of the men has deep expertise in finance, the other in medicine. Our drive to the Hill turned into a fascinating discussion of major issues facing our nation. I learned that there are now 50 percent fewer 18-year-olds than there were just 20 years ago—a demographic shift that will have wide-reaching consequences. Both men also agreed that our nation’s financial future looks bleak because of the growing debt and deficit. Members of both parties know we are heading toward a fiscal cliff, yet very few have the courage to address it openly. Talking honestly about the problem—and possible solutions—is often seen as politically dangerous. As one of them noted, even if you took every dollar from every billionaire in the country, it still would not solve the problem.
On this trip, I flew into DC a day early to allow time to deliver my notes of encouragement and to prepare for our Carols in the Capitol event on Wednesday night. Making my way through the halls, I delivered 225 notes of encouragement to congressional offices. Each December I usually share a Christmas card with a picture of our family, and along the way I saw Christmas and Hanukkah decorations inside and outside many offices. Some decorations are classy and some are just fun.
In the hallways I noticed continued tributes to Charlie Kirk. Charlie’s impact on lawmakers and young staff members was huge. I know of several staffers who are working in government because of his influence.
I also ran into a longtime friend who is a government employee in a critical role supporting congressional staff. Over the years, he has shared the stress of managing employees—some of whom fit the familiar stereotype of doing just enough to get by. I learned as well about a chief of staff who is about to lose his position but needs eight more months of employment to qualify for his pension. The Hill is filled with very real human stories of pressure, uncertainty, and perseverance.
Later that evening in the Capitol, I greeted several representatives in the hallways outside the House Chamber as they gathered for the first votes of the week. A number of them had just attended a weekly prayer gathering held before the opening votes. I also spent a few moments with a representative who has been undergoing cancer treatments. While the cancer has returned, he is beginning a new course of treatment and remains optimistic for healing.
Tuesday morning began early as I was invited to sing the National Anthem at a 7:30 a.m. breakfast for members of Congress who are military veterans. The room was filled with Navy Seals, Marines and others who have served in our military. There were sharp salutes around the room as I sang. Although he is not a veteran, Speaker Mike Johnson was in attendance and offered brief remarks to those in attendance.
Stress on Capitol Hill is not only between the two political parties but also within each party. The subtle—and sometimes not-so-subtle—struggle for influence and power is very real. These tensions affect everything from legislative support to the confirmation of nominees before Senate committees.
Both House Republicans and Democrats were also closely watching a special election for a congressional seat in Tennessee, which could affect the House majority. Republicans were confident they would hold the seat, but they were watching to see how decisive the final margin would be.
It also appears that a record number of members will not seek re-election next year. Both parties are actively searching for and vetting candidates they believe can win.
Besides engaging with members of Congress, I love connecting with the staffers on the Hill. Congressional offices are fill with some outstanding young people who are interested in impacting our nation in a positive way.
On Wednesday, I turned my full attention to our annual Carols in the Capitol event, which we have been blessed to present for nearly 10 years, with only a break during the COVID pandemic. This year’s concert featured a brass ensemble, keyboard, and LU Praise—a wonderful choir from Liberty University. About 150 people filled the Petinaud Room on the first floor of the Capitol and lifted their voices together in carols. I had the privilege of conducting the evening and singing three selections.
Our congressional hosts were Republican Senator Ted Budd of North Carolina and Democratic Congressman Tom Suozzi of New York. Everyone in attendance could sense the presence of God as the room was filled with the praise of Christ at Christmas.
My plans are to return to Washington, DC in January and continue to be an encourager to those who serve on Capitol Hill.
Finally, I would ask you to prayerfully consider making a contribution to The Word on the Hill. My presence on Capitol Hill is totally underwritten by donors. We receive no government support.
Thank you for your faithful prayers and generous support
Steve
— Steve