I was back on Capitol Hill on Tuesday of this week. The Washington, DC heat and humidity were also back in full force, and it's only the beginning of June. It will become even more intense over the next two months.
Things also remain heated politically. House and Senate hearings continue to be contentious, with partisan bickering surrounding several issues, including national security, appropriations packages, and the Save America Act. Outside the doors of several House offices, signs reading "No Spying" were posted, referring to the ongoing debate over FISA.
On Thursday, the last legislative day of the week, the House failed to pass a short-term FISA extension by a vote of 198-218, once again demonstrating how difficult it can be for the narrow Republican majority to advance its agenda. Democrats and a handful of Republicans were attempting to send a message to President Trump regarding his choice to lead the Department of National Intelligence by withholding their support for FISA. The President has since nominated a different individual for that position.
I completed delivering my notes of encouragement to offices in the Cannon Building before heading to the Capitol. From one of the offices in the Speaker of the House's office suite, I captured a westward view of the National Mall. Preparations for what is being called the Great American State Fair are underway. The plan is for sixteen days of activities representing all fifty states, beginning June 25 as part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.
As with virtually everything in Washington, the event has become politicized, and several states have chosen not to participate. The planned opening concert featuring well-known artists may now become more of a political rally. It's just another example of the heat on the Hill.
Outside the House chamber, I greeted many members who were there for the third and final voting series of the day. It certainly was not the end of the workday for many of them. I later learned that members of the Appropriations Committee worked until 2:30 the following morning. After only a few hours of sleep, they returned on Wednesday to continue their work on spending bills.
I was greeted by one Catholic representative who shared that he had kept every one of my notes. He joked that when he stood before Saint Peter in heaven, he was going to show him all of my notes of encouragement. Of course, it will take more than my notes to gain admittance into heaven, but his comment reflected how much he appreciated the encouragement and prayers.
There were countless new summer interns in many offices. While it is typical for an office to have six or eight unpaid interns of high school or college age, some offices had more than twenty. That's too many for each intern to have a truly meaningful experience, and there simply isn't enough space in many offices for that number of people. Working in a congressional office can be a valuable experience, but it is not without potential downsides.
Congressional offices often take on the personality of the representative or senator they serve. Not every member of Congress possesses strong management or people skills. Over the years, I've identified offices where there is a toxic atmosphere, and it is obvious that words of encouragement and hope are especially needed. Those offices can be less-than-ideal environments for young interns.
Many times, these interns answer calls from constituents. While they are trained on how to answer questions and record opinions, they cannot be fully prepared for the occasional profanity-laced tirade from an irate caller. Quite often, the same individuals call day after day. They have little else to do but complain. Most of the time, these calls are inspired by radio, television, or internet commentators encouraging people to contact their representatives. The calls accomplish very little.
In my twelve years on Capitol Hill, I have never seen it so dysfunctional. The stress carried by members of Congress often flows directly to their staffs. When members work late into the night with little sleep, staff members are frequently required to do the same.
A few weeks ago, I received a note from a representative thanking me for one of my handwritten messages. My notes always include a Scripture verse, an inspiring or humorous quote, and a personal handwritten message. I saw this member on Wednesday, and he personally thanked me for the Mark Twain quote I had included: "Never miss an opportunity to shut up." He loved it!
As I entered one office, the chief of staff pulled me aside and asked for prayer. He is facing a legal matter in which he is innocent, yet the ongoing investigation appears politically motivated. If opponents cannot remove him from his position, they at least hope to ruin him financially through mounting legal fees.
Wednesday morning, I made my way through the basement of the Cannon Building, where a desk distributes visitor badges for Capitol tours given by members of Congress and their staffs. The ladies who work at that desk are believers, and I always stop to greet them. I've encouraged them that with every badge they hand out, they can also attach a silent prayer and blessing.
As I made my way through the Capitol toward the Senate office buildings, I slipped into the Old Supreme Court Chamber before the Visitors Center tours began filling the space. The opportunity to experience the history of the Capitol never ceases to amaze me.
Wednesday evening, I attended the Congressional Baseball Game, which raises money for local charities. It is always refreshing to see lawmakers and staff members in a more relaxed setting, away from the constant political pressures. For the sixth year in a row, the Republicans defeated the Democrats, thanks to an impressive lineup that included Senator Schmitt of Missouri, Representative Greg Steube of Florida, and Representative August Pfluger of Texas.
I continue to be blessed as I walk into offices and hear young staffers greet me with, "Hello, Steve," or "Hello, Mr. Amerson." These young people, serving in offices on both sides of the political spectrum, remind me why I'm there—to encourage them and help move them closer to Jesus.
Our nation needs God's intervention more than ever. Please pray that our leaders, regardless of political party, will hear from God as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary.
I'll be heading back to Capitol Hill in two weeks. I expect things will continue to be heated in and around the Capitol.
God bless,
Steve