Want to fix Congress? Listen to those who work there

By Bradford Fitch / For The Fulcrum

After watching President Biden’s State of the Union address, it would be easy to conclude that members of Congress have little interest in, and do not value, civility, bipartisanship and collaboration as a means to address the challenges our nation faces.

But a recent survey of some other folks who were also in the House chamber the same night shows those principles are still respected on Capitol Hill. These people are the men and women who work as staff in Congress.

The Congressional Management Foundation conducted a survey of senior congressional staff late last year and the results offer a roadmap to improving Congress as an institution. It also showed some positive signs that when members of Congress work in a civil and bipartisan fashion, they can actually improve our democratic institutions.

The survey and study, “The State of the Congress 2024,” is by no means a ringing endorsement of the legislative branch. In fact, when staffers were asked whether they agree with the statement, “Congress currently functions as a democratic legislature should,” only 19 percent agreed.

https://www.heraldnet.com/opinion/comment-want-to-fix-congress-listen-to-those-who-work-there/