Trevor Corning served as a legislative fellow this summer in the office of Representative John Lewis. He shares highlights from his experience with one of the leaders of the Civil Rights movement.
After working at Brookings Executive Education (BEE) for two and half years, I wanted to experience first-hand the Brookings Legis Fellows experience. This summer, I had the opportunity to have a Legislative Fellowship in the office of Congressman John Lewis, the Senior Chief Deputy Whip for the House Democratic Caucus.
Rep. John Lewis.
In my role as a Legislative Assistant, it was my responsibility to cover a set of issues and keep the Congressman up to date on any proposed bill in those disciplines, how the issues affect the district’s constituents, the political environment, and act as a resource for him to decide on a course of action.
I was the primary staff member for the Congressman when drafting both a simple resolution and a standalone bill. I acted as a policy advisor to the Representative on hundreds of amendment votes, and staffed him in caucus strategy meetings regarding significant legislative action.
In addition to the nuances of maintaining a legislative portfolio, Capitol Hill is always an exciting place to work. I was particularly fortunate to work for Congressman Lewis this summer as it marked the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington as well as the Supreme Court’s two landmark rulings which he has been and continues to be significantly involved with: The repeal of Defense of Marriage Act and striking section 4 of the Voting Rights Act.
I am happy to now return to Brookings Executive Educationwith a new perspective on the institution to more effectively educate our audience, but I implore everyone to explore an opportunity to serve in our country’s federal legislative system.
Legis Fellows graduation.
Understanding how and why ideas and bills do or do not become law provides a baseline to begin working with our lawmakers to write and alter policy in order to make our country more free, equal, and just. I hope you will join us in some of our upcoming courses where I can share my insider’s perspective.
A number of the BEE Legis Congressional Fellows recently completed the half year term. Senate Historian, Donald A. Ritchie, spoke and graduates received their certificates of completion at a luncheon ceremony on August 29, 2013.
