This week, I returned to Capitol Hill. I arrived Tuesday afternoon and immediately began my rounds, visiting offices in both the Cannon House Office Building and the Capitol. As I made my way through the halls, members of the House were arriving from their home districts across the country, while the Senate was already in session.
When I stopped by the office of Majority Whip Tom Emmer, I noticed staff setting up food for members ahead of votes scheduled for 6:30 p.m.—a typical pre-vote scene in the Capitol.
As typical, several members of Congress were on my flight to DC. Over the years, I've had numerous opportunities to connect with members during travel, thanks in part to my ten years of ministry on the Hill. I’ve built relationships. From my perspective, the average constituent rarely has direct access to their elected officials. The demands on members are intense, and staff are tasked with guarding their time—sometimes to the point of creating isolation.
During the summer months, the Hill is flooded with interns, many of whom are completing a six-week program. One House office I visited had 17 interns—an unusually high number. In fact, I could barely get through the door due to the number of them seated just inside.
These young interns often get a crash course in government operations and assist with giving tours to visiting families and tourists. I couldn’t help but notice one young man wearing a suit with the tag still on the sleeve. It was probably his first suit.
As I walked through the Cannon Building, I saw one representative on the phone, earbuds in. When he spotted me, he asked the person on the line to hold, removed his earbuds, and asked for prayer.
In another office, I handed my note to a receptionist but saw the member inside. I waved, and he immediately invited me in. He thanked me for helping arrange the recent worship evening with Michael W. Smith, and we shared a brief time of prayer together.
The House has passed their version of what’s being called “The Big, Beautiful Bill.” It remains a hot topic of discussion, and the Senate is now working through its revisions, which are likely to bring significant changes.
There’s already talk that House members may need to return during a scheduled district week to vote on the revised version. The goal of having the bill ready for President Trump’s signature by July 4th remains optimistic.
Following my last update, someone expressed concern that I was promoting the bill. Let me clarify, while I am a conservative and a registered Independent, I aim to provide a perspective based on my personal experience on the Hill and through the lens of my Christian worldview.
“The Big, Beautiful Bill” is far from perfect. Some changes being proposed by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) could negatively impact certain well-intentioned programs. However, reform is needed. Whether as part of this bill or in standalone legislation, renewing the Trump tax cuts is, in my view, critical for economic stability.
On Thursday as I was flying home that the battle between the President and Elon Musk unfolded. In my opinion the battle of the egos is not a positive thing for the country.
On Wednesday morning, I stood in a long security line outside the Cannon Building. Three House members saw me and invited me to bypass security and enter with them. As we walked, we shared a time of prayer before they headed to a conference meeting in the Capitol basement.
Later that morning, I returned to my hotel to host the monthly Zoom meeting with the Amerson Ministries Board. I provided updates on our ministry finances, upcoming events, and my work in Washington. Given how much of my time is now focused on the Hill, the board has suggested adding a former member of Congress to the board to offer strategic insight and support. More to come on that soon.
That afternoon, I visited Senate offices and spent time in a closed-door meeting with a staffer I’ve gotten to know well. He and his wife recently experienced a miscarriage, and it was a privilege to encourage him during this difficult season.
While I rarely get to enjoy DC’s cultural offerings, Wednesday evening I attended a special performance of "Amadeus" with the National Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performing the score live. My friend, Richard Kaufman, was the guest conductor. Richard and his wife, Gayle, are dear friends and great supporters of Amerson Ministries. It was a joy to encourage him and enjoy a remarkable evening.
I’ll return to Capitol Hill in two weeks, and it promises to be a critical time as Congress tackles the spending bill and other major legislative issues.
Please pray for wisdom and grace to prevail in these heated summer months on the Hill and for peace in the many volatile places around the world.
God bless,
Steve