Mar 20, 2010

90 Seconds to Government Run Healthcare


Latest Job Leads in Republican Offices on Capitol Hill

March 18, 2010

Legislative Director - Congressman Randy Forbes (VA-04) seeks a Legislative Director. Successful candidates will demonstrate creative legislative thinking, conservative principles, a high regard for constituent service, and proven Capitol Hill management experience. Candidates with Virginia ties and military background will be given priority. HASC/SASC/HAC-D/SAC-D experience highly preferred. Email cover letter and resume to christy.grubbs@mail.house.gov with Legislative Director in the subject line. No phone calls or drop ins, please.

Staff Assistant - Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner has an opening for a Staff Assistant in his Washington office. Successful candidates must have excellent organizational, personal, writing and communication skills. Responsibilities include greeting visitors, answering phones, opening mail, arranging tours, filling flag requests, performing legislative research and other general office duties. Wisconsin ties preferred. Resumes and cover letters should be sent to michael.lenn@mail.house.gov with “staff assistant” in the subject line.

Internship (Immediate Opening) - The Office of Congressman Tim Johnson (R-IL 15) is seeking intelligent and conservative minded individuals for Spring 2010. Duties include attending briefings on behalf of senior staff, assisting staff with policy research, as well as managing constituent contact, conducting tours of the U.S. Capitol and assisting front-end staff. Applicants should possess strong written and verbal communications skills and be self-motivated. Applicants should also have outgoing personalities and be able to problem solve and multi-task. Midwest ties are a plus, but not required. Applicant Instructions: All interested persons should contact Alicia Thompson, Internship Coordinator for Congressman Johnson, at 202-225-2371 or Alicia.Thompson@mail.house.gov. All applications should include a brief statement about why they want to work for Rep. Johnson and an up-to-date resume.

Interns - The office of Congressman Robert E. Latta (OH-5) is seeking conservative interns for summer of 2010 in the Washington, DC office as well as offices in Norwalk, Defiance, and Bowling Green. Position responsibilities include answering phones, sorting and drafting correspondence, giving Capitol tours, researching legislation, data entry, and other duties as requested by staff members. Candidates should have a strong work ethic, be highly organized and motivated, and possess a positive attitude. Ohio ties are preferred. College credit, if applicable, will be provided. The ideal candidate would work full time. College juniors or seniors are preferred. Qualified applicants should send a resume and cover letter to ohio5intern@gmail.com, Attention: Intern Coordinator with “Summer Internship Application” in the subject line.
March 15, 2010
Staff Assistant - The office of Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-5) is searching for a Staff Assistant for the Washington, D.C. office. The duties include, but are not limited to, the following: responding to constituent requests for flags, tours and other information; directing phone calls and mail to the appropriate staff; greeting visitors and archiving photos; assisting the Scheduler with interns, as needed; assisting individuals who have appointments with the Member or other staff members; performing other legislative and administrative duties as assigned. Texas ties a plus. Please e-mail your resume and cover letter to TX05Jobs@mail.house.gov. NO phone calls or faxes.

Internship (Immediate Opening) - Congressman Steve Austria (OH-7) is seeking an intern for the remainder of the 2010 spring semester for his Washington, DC office. This internship will provide the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in a Congressional office and a greater understanding of the legislative process. Intern responsibilities generally include answering phones, logging and drafting constituent correspondence, giving tours of the U.S. Capitol building and aiding staff with various projects. The ideal candidate will be detail oriented and possess strong written and oral communications skills. Ohio ties are preferred, but not required. Interested candidates should send a brief cover letter and resume (including grade level, major and cumulative GPA) to Intern.OH07@gmail.com.

March 11, 2010

Legislative Correspondent - Midwestern conservative Republican seeks an experienced Legislative Correspondent for their DC office. Responsibilities include drafting constituent correspondence and maintaining a legislative portfolio centered on education, pro-life, and pro-family policy. Further responsibilities include briefing the Representative on relevant policy developments, as well as drafting legislation and memos. Excellent writing and interpersonal communication skills are a must. Ideal candidates will have at least one year of Capitol Hill experience. Interested candidates should their email resume, cover letter, references, and writing sample to conservativeLC@yahoo.com. Midwest ties are preferred but not required.

Paid Interns -The Republican House Policy Committee is looking for motivated individuals to assist a leadership office in networking, researching policy, data building and analysis, and some administrative work for the Spring Semester. The internship will NOT require constituent mail work, guided tours of the Capitol, flag requests, and other tasks normally associated with internships in a Congressional office. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and one writing sample to Kristal.Quarker@mail.house.gov

March 8, 2010

Unpaid Intern - Republican Congressman John Kline (MN-02) is currently seeking a full time intern for the remainder of the 2010 spring semester. Candidates should have an interest in public policy and the legislative process. Interns will have the opportunity to attend committee hearings and briefings and assist the legislative team with research and constituent correspondence. Responsibilities will also include: answering phones, processing constituent mail, conducting tours of the Capitol, and performing other general office duties. Applicants should be enthusiastic, reliable, and hard-working. Minnesota ties are preferred but not required. Interested candidates should fax their resume and cover letter to (202) 225-2595 or email clair.silliman@mail.house.gov .

March 4, 2010

Legislative Assistant - The Office of Congressman Adam Putnam (R-FL) seeks a Legislative Assistant for the DC office whose primary focus will be healthcare. Qualified applicants will have excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of the legislative process, and a background in healthcare policy. Responsibilities will include briefing the Congressman on relevant policy developments and upcoming votes as well as drafting legislation, memos and constituent correspondence. The ideal candidate will have significant Hill experience and the ability to complete assignments in a timely manner. Florida ties a plus. Please email resume, cover letter, and a writing sample letter putnam.scheduler@mail.house.gov with subject line: LA Resume. No calls, drop-ins, or faxes, please.

Legislative Correspondent - Senior Northeast Republican seeks a Legislative Correspondent for DC office. Responsibilities include processing all constituent mail in a timely manner and requires: printing letters, managing incoming emails, drafting constituent responses, and using the IQ computer program. Further responsibilities include a thorough knowledge of website management: including posting pictures, adding text and sending weekly E-newsletter. Excellent writing skills are a must, as well as the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. This position requires strong interpersonal and analytical skills. Candidates must be a self-starter and have the ability to interact as a team member in a small office. New Jersey ties are preferred. Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample and three references to opportunity2442@gmail.com.

Internship - Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA-22) is accepting applications for paid and unpaid DC internships beginning mid-April. Interns assist with policy research and projects, constituent services such as leading tours of the Capitol, and general office administrative duties. The internship is an excellent opportunity to learn how Congress works. Join a dynamic office and experience first-hand the political and public policy process. Applicants must have at least junior standing and a 3.0 GPA; college graduates also encouraged to apply. To apply, please complete the internship application available on the website: www.kevinmccarthy.house.gov. Include days and times available, attach a resume and writing sample, and send to Ashley.mettler@mail.house.gov .

Interns - The office of Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is currently seeking 2 full-time interns for the spring semester of 2010 in the Washington, D.C. office. Responsibilities include conducting tours of the Capitol, answering the telephones, organizing and inputting constituent correspondence, and aiding legislative staff on special projects. Interns are also given the opportunity to attend hearings and briefings to enhance their experience on Capitol Hill. Successful candidates will be highly motivated, detail oriented, and able to multi-task. This is an unpaid internship that, dependant upon your institution, may be eligible for college credit. Qualified applicants should send a resume and cover letter to danielle.barrow@mail.house.gov.

Spring Internship – The office of Congressman Darrell Issa is looking for motivated, hard-working interns to begin the week of March 15th in the Washington, DC office. The internship is unpaid and both full and part-time applicants are encouraged to apply. Interns are responsible for assisting the legislative staff with research, attending hearings and briefings, leading visitors on tours of the Capitol and answering phones. Interested applicants should e-mail cover letter, resume and a short writing sample to CA49DCinternship@mail.house.gov .

March 1, 2010

Interns - Congressman Lamborn’s office is now accepting applications for this Summer’s 2010 Congressional Leadership Program. This paid Associate Program is an experience unique to Congressman Lamborn’s office and is open to students and graduates who have completed at least 2 years of college. Strong ties to the fifth Congressional District in Colorado are a must. For more information on the Congressional Leadership Program and to apply, please visit the internship section at www.Lamborn.house.gov.

Illegals Want Amnesty, Americans Want Jobs


Mar 16, 2010

Hands Off My Healthcare

This is an ultrasound of my little girl, who is due on March 26th. Notice her hand. Not only is she saying hands off my healthcare, she specifically is saying: "Don't use federal healthcare dollars to fund abortion! "

Healthcare Debate: A Guide to Understanding the Democrat Rulebook

Following is a memo that the Republican Members of the House Rules Committee put together to help Americans understand the legislative maneuvers the Democrats are using to ram the Healthcare bill down our throats. I hope you find this helpful:



The Slaughter Solution: Bending the Rules Beyond Belief

March 15, 2010

To: Interested Parties

From: Ranking Republican David Dreier (R-San Dimas, CA)

Subject: The Slaughter Solution: Bending the Rules Beyond Belief

The Democratic Majority has a problem with their efforts to pass healthcare legislation, and it’s political: they simply do not have enough Members in the House willing to vote for the Senate-passed healthcare bill. That’s understandable because it’s an awful bill loaded with special interest provisions. To solve their political problem, they’re looking for a procedural solution. That’s where the Rules Committee comes in.

On Sunday, senior presidential advisor David Axelrod said on ABC News’ This Week, “We don’t want to see procedural gimmicks used to try to prevent an up-or-down vote on this issue.” But gimmicks seem to be exactly what House Democrats are planning to use. According to a Friday report in Politico, “[Speaker] Pelosi reminded her members, as she frequently does, that she wants to make the whole process as quick and politically painless as possible, a person present said.” Given the widespread unpopularity of the healthcare process, and the Senate bill in particular, it may be quick, but it won’t be painless. How will they attempt it? The “Slaughter Solution.” If House Democrats are going to be able to move the Senate-passed healthcare bill and a reconciliation “fix-it” package, they are going to have to seriously bend the rules to make it happen.

Moving the Bill through the House

Under the Democratic Majority’s strategy, they must get 2 bills to the President’s desk: (1) the Senate-passed healthcare bill and (2) the reconciliation “fix-it” legislation colloquially referred to as the “sidecar.” The House Budget Committee is beginning the process by marking up the “fix-it” bill today. That bill will be just a shell. Its text will be replaced in the Rules Committee with the still unseen (as of Monday morning) text of the reconciliation bill. Bearing in mind the main problem facing the Majority — a lack of votes for the Senate-passed bill — we expect them to use the rule providing for consideration of the Senate and sidecar bills to minimize the number of difficult votes they will have to force their Members to take. There are at least five potential paths illustrated in the table below.

Senate Bill
(Senate Amendment to H.R. 3950)

Reconciliation "Sidecar"
(yet to be reported by Budget Committee

Scenario 1: "Play it Straight"

Rule provides for an up or down vote

Rule provides for an up or down vote

Scenario 2: "Slaughter Solution 1"

Rule "deems" the Senate bill passed immediately and sends the bill to the President

Rule provides for an up or down vote

Scenario 3: "Slaughter Solution 2"

Rule "deems" the Senate bill passed upon House adoption of reconciliation sidecar

Rule provides for an up or down vote

Scenario 4: "Slaughter Solution 3"

Rule "deems" the Senate bill passed when the Senate passes the reconciliation sidecar

Rule provides for an up or down vote

Scenario 5: "The Double Whammy"


Rule #2 "deems the Senate bill passed immediately and sends the bill to the President

Rule #1 allows the Rules Committee to turn off the motion to recommit
Rule #2 "deems" the sidecar bill passed immediately and sends the bill to the Senate

If the Majority were to handle these items under regular order, we could expect up or down votes on both the Senate-passed healthcare bill and the sidecar bill. We know that won’t happen. Their political problem is a lack of will to take that all-important first vote on the Senate healthcare bill. This brings us to the “Slaughter Solution” and its many variations.

The Slaughter Solution

When the Chairwoman of the Rules Committee floated the proposed “Slaughter Solution” last week, the outcry was immediate. What she proposed was using a rule providing for consideration of both the Senate and sidecar bills to “deem” the Senate bill as passed, avoiding the political problems that stem from taking a true up or down vote on the horribly unpopular legislation.

The Slaughter Solution comes in three flavors: in the first, the rule simply self-enacts the Senate bill and sends it along to the President for his signature; the second deems the Senate healthcare bill adopted only upon House passage of the reconciliation package; and the third, most egregious option, conditions adoption of the Senate healthcare package on the Senate passage of the reconciliation sidecar. Only then would the Senate-passed healthcare bill be approved by the House. In all three of these scenarios, the Senate-passed healthcare bill wouldn’t be given an up or down vote on its own.

While it appears that the Democratic majority has not definitively settled on a strategy, the third Slaughter Solution may not be viable. Recent reports indicated that the Senate parliamentarian has thrown cold water on that scenario by asserting that the House must approve and the President must sign the Senate-passed healthcare bill before the Senate can even begin the reconciliation process. The reasoning was that the reconciliation instructions contained in the Budget Resolution require changes in law, and changes to a yet-to-be-enacted bill don’t count. Even Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer seem to have accepted this detail as a reality that must be confronted.

There is one final scenario that is so over the top that it’s unlikely that even this Majority would attempt it. But considering their track record, it’s worth mentioning - if they are running into serious problems rounding up those final votes, they may try anything. Due to reforms put in place at the beginning of the Republican majority, the Rules Committee is prohibited from reporting a rule which eliminates the minority’s ability to offer a final amendment to a new bill before the House, called a motion to recommit. If the Democratic Majority were to first pass a rule “turning off” the motion to recommit, they would be able to perform a magic trick I’m calling the “double-whammy:” one rule could self-enact both the Senate health care package and the reconciliation sidecar, meaning with one vote we could pass both bills without anyone having ever actually voted up or down on them.

What Happens Next?

After the Budget Committee finishes its markup, the Rules Committee will meet, and we expect to report a rule matching one of the 3 Slaughter solutions described above. Assuming that the Democrats muster enough votes to pass the rule, it’s likely that the Senate bill will be on its way to the President, and the Senate will have the reconciliation sidecar in its hands.

It is worth remembering that the reconciliation process is entirely about the Senate. While it enables the Majority to side-step many of the Senate’s 60-vote requirements, it is also tightly restricted by the Budget Act and Senate rules. So the House-passed sidecar bill must meet the Senate’s tests for reconciliation, and the individual provisions in the bill must avoid running afoul of the “Byrd Rule,” which prohibits inclusion of non-budget related items in a reconciliation bill.

This raises a number of questions that can only be answered once the reconciliation sidecar has left the House and begins moving through the Senate process:

  • Does the “sidecar” qualify as reconciliation legislation in the eyes of the Senate? If the House makes any mistakes in its handling of the bill, it may be enough to call into question the legislation’s status, and could easily derail the entire process with no chance of getting it restarted. Merely titling a bill “reconciliation” is not enough; the Senate looks at the process which passed the bill to define its status. The more shortcuts the Majority takes with the rule, the higher the probability of problems on this front.
  • Are any of the provisions subject to strike under the Byrd Rule? If a Senator’s point of order that a provision violates the Byrd Rule is sustained, and they can’t get 60 votes to retain it, then even if the Senate passes the reconciliation bill, it must come back to the House for another vote. Depending on what got stricken, it could make House passage difficult.
  • Will any amendments be adopted? While the use of the reconciliation process limits debate, it does not limit the ability of Senators to offer amendments. Any amendments adopted will force the bill back to the House for yet another vote. Again, depending on the substance of the any adopted amendments, it could make a House vote difficult.

The one thing that history demonstrates is that the reconciliation process in the Senate is unpredictable. No matter how well you “scrub” the provisions in a bill for potential Byrd rule violations, something always gets through. The Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 had 3 provisions which were stricken on Byrd rule points of order despite a thorough review. The notion that the reconciliation bill will be immediately cleared by the Senate for the President is difficult to fathom.

The Bottom Line

Reconciliation is no silver bullet. It requires a leap of faith that the Senate won’t change anything and — with all due respect to the Senate — that faith is misplaced. Institutionally, they simply can’t guarantee that outcome.

Any House Democrat who votes for a rule that moves this process forward is really voting for one thing — to make the Senate-passed healthcare bill the law of the land. The actual language of the rule will be unequivocal on that point. Just because you use a bat to hit a ball instead of throwing it, your neighbor’s window is still just as broken. A vote for the rule is a vote for the Senate bill. There is no getting around that fact.

They can break any arm, bend any rule. But the Democratic Majority cannot deny that they are turning the process of our democracy on its head in an effort to achieve a highly unpopular, partisan objective.

Repost of John Hood's Excellent Health Care Rebuttal

John Hood's Daily Journal
I Will Not Comply
By John Hood

March 16, 2010

RALEIGH – I’ve been arguing the case against ObamaCare for more than a year. I’ve argued that it will raise costs, reduce freedom, and federalize the funding and regulation of a sixth of the nation’s economy. I’ve also pointed out that it is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of why medical costs are rising, and would destroy the only trend working against health care inflation – the rise of consumer-driven health care.

But now, I’ve lost my passion for continuing the debate. I’ve lost my motivation to identify the bill’s flaws and failures. I’ve even lost my anger at the arrogance of Washington politicians who think they know best how to manage my medical care and rearrange my personal finances.

Why? Because it’s becoming clear to me that I and other critics of ObamaCare have already won the intellectual battle. We’ve already succeeded in informing the public about the particulars of the bill, and the public now strongly opposes ObamaCare. The more President Obama shouts into his microphone, the more the public comes to oppose his plan. There is no conceivable way that the president or the leaders of Congress can legally enact their legislative monstrosity.

Instead, they are going to cheat.

They are going to employ some kind of legislative trickery to pretend to pass a bill that, they now realize, will never become law through constitutional means. They may use the now-infamous Slaughter Rule, which would allow House members to claim to have voted to amend the objectionable Senate bill without actually having passed it through the House. Or they’ll come up with an even-zanier scheme, including a subsequent reconciliation process in the Senate designed to overcome the very filibuster they’ve used to block conservative bills and nominees in the past.

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m not planning to recognize such a result as legally binding. I’m not going to pretend to obey any dictates from federal health-care bureaucrats that have never been authorized by a constitutional vote of both houses of Congress. I will not submit to any extra-constitutional order to dismantle the consumer-driven health plan I have set up for my employees.

I will not comply. If the government tries to make me comply, I’ll sue. And I’ll win.

This is not (yet) a banana republic where constitutions are seen as inconvenient impediments to the rule of the despot. This is not (yet) a European-style welfare state where some powerful parliament can exercise legislative, executive, and judicial power all in one stroke. This is a constitutional republic in which government power is divided, its exercise is strictly limited, and our rights are not some generous gift of those in power, to be withdrawn at their whim, but are instead a permanent check on their power.

If the House fails to hold a straightforward vote on the Senate bill that was passed a couple of months ago, that bill can neither become law nor be amended by future congressional action. It will have died. There will be no ObamaCare bill, no new taxes or regulations, and no unconstitutional mandate that Americans buy health plans approved by politicians.

The president and his allies may claim otherwise, but that won’t change the reality of the situation. If they command the rest of us to pretend they have passed the bill, I will not comply.

You shouldn’t, either.

Hood is president of the John Locke Foundation

Mar 15, 2010

Sue Myrick Interviews Paul Ryan Re: Roadmap to America's Future


Sue Myrick recently interviewed Congressman Paul Ryan (R-WI) regarding his Roadmap for America's Future legislation. Check it out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Bg7L4dnJ9M

Mar 13, 2010

Department of Justice to Congress: Beware of CAIR


Reposting the Investigative Project on Terrorism's analysis of a recent Department of Justice correspondence with several members of Congress regarding the Muslim Brotherhood front group CAIR. Sue Myrick was one of the members who received the letter. At what point, does America say enough is enough and shut these guys down?


DOJ: CAIR's Unindicted Co-Conspirator Status Legit
IPT NewsMarch 12, 2010
http://www.investigativeproject.org/1854/doj-cairs-unindicted-co-conspirator-status-legit

There's another letter circulating on Capitol Hill affirming federal law enforcement's belief that the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is the product of a Hamas-support network in the United States.

Assistant Attorney General Ronald Weich sent the letter last month to four members of Congress who asked for details last fall on how CAIR was named an unindicted co-conspirator in the terror-finance trial against the Holy Land Foundation and its former officials.

He included trial transcripts and exhibits "which demonstrated a relationship among CAIR, individual CAIR founders, and the Palestine Committee. Evidence was also introduced that demonstrated a relationship between the Palestine Committee and HAMAS, which was designated as a terrorist organization in 1995."

Hamas is an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood, and trial exhibits show the Brotherhood created the Palestine Committee. CAIR officials adamantly deny any involvement with either Hamas or the Muslim Brotherhood. The Weich letter, however, shows that the Department of Justice has not wavered in its conclusion that the internal records it possesses prove a connection.

It echoes a letter last spring from an FBI congressional liaison explaining why Bureau policy bars communication with CAIR outside of a criminal investigation. In that letter, Richard C. Powers, an assistant director in the FBI's office of Congressional Affairs, said evidence "demonstrated a relationship among CAIR, individual CAIR founders (including its current President Emeritus and its Executive Director) and the Palestine Committee."

Other exhibits showed that the Palestine Committee was a fundraising and propaganda arm in the United States for Hamas, which has been a designated terrorist organization since 1995. "[U]ntil we can resolve whether there continues to be a connection between CAIR or its executives and HAMAS," Powers wrote, "the FBI does not view CAIR as an appropriate liaison partner."
Weich's letter to U.S. Rep. Sue Myrick and her colleagues points to two excerpts of trial testimony from FBI Special Agent Lara Burns. Both deal with conversations leading up to CAIR's original formation.

In one, she reads from transcripts from a secret 1993 gathering of Hamas supporters in Philadelphia where the group talks of creating a new organization with a fairly innocuous sounding name. She read comments from Holy Land Foundation President Shukri Abu Baker explain the new entity should present a benign face compared to existing Islamist groups:
"And let's not hoist a large Islamic flag, and let's not be barbaric-talking. We will remain a front so that if the thing happens, we will benefit from the new happenings instead of having all of our organizations classified and exposed."

In the other, Burns describes an exhibit which shows CAIR listed on a Palestine Committee agenda within weeks of its 1994 creation. In response to a question from federal prosecutor Barry Jonas, Burns said it was the first time CAIR's name appeared in internal Palestine Committee records seized by the FBI:

A. It did not exist prior to the Philadelphia meeting.

Q. So it came into being after Philadelphia?

A. That is correct.

After a 2007 trial ended with a deadlocked jury, a 2008 retrial resulted in guilty verdicts on 108 counts. CAIR petitioned the Dallas court presiding over the Holy Land trial to be removed from the co-conspirator list. Their complaint emphasized the unusual nature of making public the names of the unindicted co-conspirators and claimed the move unfairly tarnished CAIR's reputation. That request was denied last summer.

Weich's letter concludes by noting U.S. Rep. Sue Myrick requested "an investigation into the possible illegalities of CAIR," saying it was passed along to "appropriate FBI entities."

Recent filings in a civil case involving CAIR indicate that a federal grand jury investigation is looking at the organization's ties to Hamas.

Read the full DOJ letter here.

Mar 12, 2010

God Save the Queen: If It Can Happen There, It Can Happen Here


Recommendations for CAUTION attendees

A few of you who were present for my recent speech to CAUTION asked for some recommendations on how to stay better informed.

Here are some sources I recommend:
1. Read They Must Be Stopped by Brigitte Gabriel.
2. Sign up to receive weekly email updates from the Investigative Project on Terrorism (IPT). Google it and you will find it.
3. Sign up to receive email updates from ACT! for America. Google it and you will find it.
4. Read Infiltration by Paul Sperry.
5. Sign up for Sue Myrick's anti-terrorism enewsletter (www.myrick.house.gov)

I hope this helps

Latest Job Leads in DC

March 11, 2010

Legislative Correspondent - Midwestern conservative Republican seeks an experienced Legislative Correspondent for their DC office. Responsibilities include drafting constituent correspondence and maintaining a legislative portfolio centered on education, pro-life, and pro-family policy. Further responsibilities include briefing the Representative on relevant policy developments, as well as drafting legislation and memos. Excellent writing and interpersonal communication skills are a must. Ideal candidates will have at least one year of Capitol Hill experience. Interested candidates should their email resume, cover letter, references, and writing sample to conservativeLC@yahoo.com. Midwest ties are preferred but not required.

Paid Interns -The Republican House Policy Committee is looking for motivated individuals to assist a leadership office in networking, researching policy, data building and analysis, and some administrative work for the Spring Semester. The internship will NOT require constituent mail work, guided tours of the Capitol, flag requests, and other tasks normally associated with internships in a Congressional office. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and one writing sample to Kristal.Quarker@mail.house.gov

March 8, 2010

Unpaid Intern - Republican Congressman John Kline (MN-02) is currently seeking a full time intern for the remainder of the 2010 spring semester. Candidates should have an interest in public policy and the legislative process. Interns will have the opportunity to attend committee hearings and briefings and assist the legislative team with research and constituent correspondence. Responsibilities will also include: answering phones, processing constituent mail, conducting tours of the Capitol, and performing other general office duties. Applicants should be enthusiastic, reliable, and hard-working. Minnesota ties are preferred but not required. Interested candidates should fax their resume and cover letter to (202) 225-2595 or email clair.silliman@mail.house.gov .

March 4, 2010

Legislative Assistant - The Office of Congressman Adam Putnam (R-FL) seeks a Legislative Assistant for the DC office whose primary focus will be healthcare. Qualified applicants will have excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of the legislative process, and a background in healthcare policy. Responsibilities will include briefing the Congressman on relevant policy developments and upcoming votes as well as drafting legislation, memos and constituent correspondence. The ideal candidate will have significant Hill experience and the ability to complete assignments in a timely manner. Florida ties a plus. Please email resume, cover letter, and a writing sample letter putnam.scheduler@mail.house.gov with subject line: LA Resume. No calls, drop-ins, or faxes, please.

Legislative Correspondent - Senior Northeast Republican seeks a Legislative Correspondent for DC office. Responsibilities include processing all constituent mail in a timely manner and requires: printing letters, managing incoming emails, drafting constituent responses, and using the IQ computer program. Further responsibilities include a thorough knowledge of website management: including posting pictures, adding text and sending weekly E-newsletter. Excellent writing skills are a must, as well as the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. This position requires strong interpersonal and analytical skills. Candidates must be a self-starter and have the ability to interact as a team member in a small office. New Jersey ties are preferred. Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample and three references to opportunity2442@gmail.com.

Internship - Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA-22) is accepting applications for paid and unpaid DC internships beginning mid-April. Interns assist with policy research and projects, constituent services such as leading tours of the Capitol, and general office administrative duties. The internship is an excellent opportunity to learn how Congress works. Join a dynamic office and experience first-hand the political and public policy process. Applicants must have at least junior standing and a 3.0 GPA; college graduates also encouraged to apply. To apply, please complete the internship application available on the website: www.kevinmccarthy.house.gov. Include days and times available, attach a resume and writing sample, and send to Ashley.mettler@mail.house.gov .

Interns - The office of Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is currently seeking 2 full-time interns for the spring semester of 2010 in the Washington, D.C. office. Responsibilities include conducting tours of the Capitol, answering the telephones, organizing and inputting constituent correspondence, and aiding legislative staff on special projects. Interns are also given the opportunity to attend hearings and briefings to enhance their experience on Capitol Hill. Successful candidates will be highly motivated, detail oriented, and able to multi-task. This is an unpaid internship that, dependant upon your institution, may be eligible for college credit. Qualified applicants should send a resume and cover letter to danielle.barrow@mail.house.gov.

Spring Internship – The office of Congressman Darrell Issa is looking for motivated, hard-working interns to begin the week of March 15th in the Washington, DC office. The internship is unpaid and both full and part-time applicants are encouraged to apply. Interns are responsible for assisting the legislative staff with research, attending hearings and briefings, leading visitors on tours of the Capitol and answering phones. Interested applicants should e-mail cover letter, resume and a short writing sample to CA49DCinternship@mail.house.gov .

March 1, 2010

Interns - Congressman Lamborn’s office is now accepting applications for this Summer’s 2010 Congressional Leadership Program. This paid Associate Program is an experience unique to Congressman Lamborn’s office and is open to students and graduates who have completed at least 2 years of college. Strong ties to the fifth Congressional District in Colorado are a must. For more information on the Congressional Leadership Program and to apply, please visit the internship section at www.Lamborn.house.gov.

February 25, 2010

Legislative Assistant - The Office of Congressman Ted Poe (R-TX) seeks a proactive Legislative Assistant for the DC office whose primary focus will be growth and administration of the Victim’s Rights Caucus, a bi-partisan effort that advocates and provides a voice for all victims of all types of crime. Qualified applicants will have experience in meeting planning and building coalitions. A secondary component of this position is handling legislative issue areas, such as; Humanities, House Administration, Labor, Education, Housing, Women’s and Civil Rights, Consumer Protection, Government Reforms, Social Security and Agriculture. These responsibilities include formulating and writing legislation, briefing the Congressman on relevant policy developments and staffing the Member. The ideal candidate will have Hill experience, able to manage multiple projects at the same time and perform well under tight deadlines. Strong interpersonal, writing and analytical skills are a must. Candidates must be a self-starter and have a proven record of implementing legislative initiatives. Texas ties a plus. Please email resume, cover letter, and a writing sample letter to janet.diaz-brown@mail.house.gov, with subject line: Attn: LA - VRC Position. No calls, drop-ins, or faxes, please.

Mar 10, 2010

Blond-Blue-Eyed Killer


No editorializing is needed. I am just providing you with the DOJ press release about today's arrest. Houston, do we have a problem?
Department of Justice
Office of Public Affairs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Pennsylvania Woman Indicted in Plot to Recruit Violent Jihadist Fighters and to Commit Murder Overseas

David Kris, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, and Michael L. Levy, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, together with Janice K. Fedarcyk, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI in Philadelphia, today announced the unsealing of an indictment charging Colleen R. LaRose, aka "Fatima LaRose," aka "Jihad Jane," with conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, conspiracy to kill in a foreign country, making false statements to a government official and attempted identity theft.

The indictment charges that LaRose (an American citizen born in 1963 who resides in Montgomery County, Pa.) and five unindicted co-conspirators (located in South Asia, Eastern Europe, Western Europe and the United States) recruited men on the Internet to wage violent jihad in South Asia and Europe, and recruited women on the Internet who had passports and the ability to travel to and around Europe in support of violent jihad.

The indictment further charges that LaRose and her unindicted co-conspirators used the Internet to establish relationships with one another and to communicate regarding their plans, which included martyring themselves, soliciting funds for terrorists, soliciting passports and avoiding travel restrictions (through the collection of passports and through marriage) in order to wage violent jihad. The indictment further charges that LaRose stole another individual’s U.S. passport and transferred or attempted to transfer it in an effort to facilitate an act of international terrorism.

In addition, according to the indictment, LaRose received a direct order to kill a citizen and resident of Sweden, and to do so in a way that would frighten "the whole Kufar [non-believer] world." The indictment further charges that LaRose agreed to carry out her murder assignment, and that she and her co-conspirators discussed that her appearance and American citizenship would help her blend in while carrying out her plans. According to the indictment, LaRose traveled to Europe and tracked the intended target online in an effort to complete her task.
"Today’s indictment, which alleges that a woman from suburban America agreed to carry out murder overseas and to provide material support to terrorists, underscores the evolving nature of the threat we face," said David Kris, Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division. "I applaud the many agents, analysts and prosecutors who worked on this important investigation."
"This case shows the use terrorists can and do make of the Internet," said U.S. Attorney Michael L. Levy. "Colleen LaRose and five other individuals scattered across the globe are alleged to have used the Internet to form a conspiracy to provide material support to terrorism, culminating in a direct order to LaRose to commit murder overseas. LaRose – an American citizen whose appearance was considered to be an asset because it allowed her to blend in – is charged with using the Internet to recruit violent jihadist fighters and supporters, and to solicit passports and funding. It demonstrates yet another very real danger lurking on the Internet. This case also demonstrates that terrorists are looking for Americans to join them in their cause, and it shatters any lingering thought that we can spot a terrorist based on appearance."
"This case demonstrates that the FBI and our partners in the law enforcement and intelligence communities must continue to remain vigilant in the face of the threats that America faces, in whatever form those threats may present themselves or no matter how creative those who threaten us try to be," said Special Agent-in-Charge Janice K. Fedarcyk of the Philadelphia Division of the FBI. "We must use all available technologies and techniques to root out potential threats and stop those who intend to harm us."
If convicted of the charges against her, LaRose faces a potential sentence of life in prison and a $1 million fine.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Jennifer Arbittier Williams, Assistant U.S. Attorney from the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and Matthew F. Blue, Trial Attorney from the Counterterrorism Section in the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

The public is reminded that an indictment is an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Attorney General

Paul Ryan For President?


For those of you who follow the Weathervane, you know I like Rep. Paul Ryan and think he has an unbelievable future ahead of him. Here is an article about him in the latest edition of The Hill. Thought you would enjoy. PS - we will be releasing a video of Sue and Paul in next couple of weeks. Be on the lookout for it.


New Republican heavyweight takes a few political punches from the Democrats
By Walter Alarkon - 03/10/10 06:00 AM ET

Rep. Paul Ryan (Wis.) is taking his first big political punches from Democrats, a sign that the rising GOP star has graduated to the heavyweight division.
The 40-year-old Ryan, with barely a speck of gray in his jet-black hair, has emerged as a talking point for President Barack Obama and a potential presidential contender for Republicans. His plan to balance the federal budget with a mix of proposals to partially privatize Medicare and Social Security has become Democrats’ piñata.

By attacking Ryan, Democrats can rally support for healthcare reform and neutralize a lawmaker whose name appears on GOP shortlists for 2012 and 2016.
While Democrats are swinging, Republican leaders are backing away and letting Ryan take the hits.
“It wasn’t my intention to be thrust in the middle of all of this,” Ryan said in a sit-down interview with The Hill. “Now that they’re trying to elevate it, fine. It gives me a better platform to bring this debate to the American people.”
The attacks have raised the profile of the young congressman, already in his sixth House term and now the ranking member on the House Budget Committee and a senior member of the powerful Ways and Means Committee. With the attention has come increased scrutiny, which insiders expect him to face for years to come, either in the House or a higher office.
“If you name Republicans and Democrats in the House and ask me to put a Top 10 list of members who are the smartest, most effective leaders, Ryan is in that Top 10,” said Tom Davis, the former Virginia House member and National Republican Congressional Committee chairman.
All the attention hasn’t yet translated into broad GOP support for his plan. Democrats, from Obama on down, have held up Ryan’s proposals, which also include spending caps, a simplified income tax code and lower corporate taxes, as a guide to what Republicans would do if they controlled Washington.
Obama called it a “serious proposal” when he addressed Republicans in Baltimore earlier this year. But he also made clear he doesn’t agree with Ryan’s plans for Medicare.
“I’ve read it, I can tell you what’s in it, and there are some ideas in there that I would agree with, but there are some ideas that we should have a healthy debate about because I don’t agree with them,” Obama said.
When pressed on the matter, House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) distanced himself from Ryan’s plan, saying it wasn’t the official GOP platform.
“It’s his,” Boehner said.
Ryan has 11 co-sponsors, all archconservative Republicans, such as Reps. Tom Price (Ga.) and Jeb Hensarling (Texas).
He’s not surprised GOP leaders haven’t signed on after seeing Democrats go after it.
“The reason I did this was to try and stir debate and encourage others to do this as well,” he said. “What I’m finding is that’s probably not going to happen because of all the demagoguery ... It tells them, ‘Don’t stick your head above the foxhole or else you’ll got shot.’ ”
While Ryan says he wasn’t expecting the barrage, he hasn’t shied away from the firing line. He visited New Hampshire two weeks ago, just days before he sparred with Obama during the White House healthcare summit. He’s already a regular on CNBC and cable news networks.
Others have taken notice. The late conservative columnist Robert Novak floated Ryan as a dark-horse vice presidential candidate for Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) in 2008. Sarah Palin, when asked on Fox News last month to handicap the 2012 GOP presidential field, started with Ryan, saying she was “very impressed” with him.

When asked about a 2012 campaign, Ryan said, “God, no.” He said any suggestion about a vice presidential nomination is “such a hypothetical thing, I don’t even send my mind there.”
Ryan’s next act is unlikely to be on the other side of the Capitol. He told The Hill that he considered a challenge to Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) this year, but ultimately decided he could have more impact at the fore of the House Budget Committee, especially if Republicans win back the House.
He said he would serve on the bipartisan debt commission created by the White House, despite his own reservations about the creation of the commission, noting that it is “the only game in town” when it comes to seeking a plan to rein in the $12.4 trillion debt.
And while he’s feeling the heat from the other side of the aisle, he confesses to having great respect for House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.).
When it comes to extending the solvency of Social Security, he said the two lawmakers agree on pegging the retirement age to lifespan and benefit levels to income.
“Look, I have a lot of respect for Steny,” Ryan said. “I think he’s serious about this. ... Where we probably would have a disagreement is probably on taxes. My point is we shouldn’t try taxing our way out of this.”
Hoyer, for his part, said Ryan deserves respect for putting forward serious proposals, even ones he disagrees with.
“I admire him for the political courage he has shown in taking seriously the reality of our country’s fiscal situation,” Hoyer said. “However, we have significant disagreements on the substance of what he proposes. While I agree that we can’t tax our way out of the problem, it is not sustainable to close the gap solely by cutting spending on entitlement programs.”
Praise like that from the other party will only last so long. Ryan said he’s not sure why Democrats are focusing on him or whether they see him as a long-term threat, and he professes not to care.
“I think you should treat every term as your last,” he said. “If you see a problem that is screaming [for] a fix, you owe it to yourself to do something about it.”

The Facade of Airline Security: How Many Shots Are In Your Bottle of Rum?


The following article ran in Wired.com Thought you would find it interesting. Yes, it is that easy.


Journalist Uses Rum To Expose Airport Security Loophole
By Jason Paur
March 9, 2010
3:14 pm
Categories: Air Travel

A Dutch journalist has exposed a loophole in airport security after carrying several liters of liquid on a transcontinental flight to Washington, D.C.
Alberto Stegeman and two colleagues carried six Bacardi rum bottles filled with water aboard flights from Amsterdam to London and then on to Dulles International Airport. The ruse was pretty straightforward, too. They bought the one-liter bottles at the a duty free shop in Amsterdam’s Schipol Airport a week before their flight. Then they returned home, emptied the bottles and filled them with water.
With the bottles filled with water, the three returned to the duty free shop on the day of their flight and paid for the bottles again as if they had just picked them off the shelf. The cashier sealed the bottles and marked them with their ticket and flight information. The three passengers then had no trouble carrying the bottles aboard the aircraft.
Stegeman explained the ruse in a news program that aired on Dutch television. It comes on the heels of a BBC report that showed the so-called “underwear bomber” wouldn’t have brought down Northwest Flight 253 on Christmas Day if he had succeeded in detonating the bomb in his pants.
This isn’t the first time Stegeman has exposed a security loophole at the Schipol airport. In 2008 he worked with a colleague who secured a job as a baggage handler. Together they managed to get a fake bomb and drugs aboard several aircraft. Because of that report, airport security recognized Stegeman as he attempted to carry the rum bottles aboard the plane and summoned additional guards and a supervisor to check him out, according to The New York Times. Stegeman says the bottles were not checked.
Stegeman’s report has prompted Dutch officials to add extra security checks at duty free shops and stop the sale of liquids at some stores.
Photo of Schipol airport: Flickr / JenWallerRead More http://www.wired.com/autopia/2010/03/journalist-uses-rum-to-expose-airport-security-loophole/#ixzz0ho2eZK86

Mar 9, 2010

Charlotte Media: Wouldn't Know a Good Story if It Stood Behind a Podium Right in Front of Them


Here is a photo taken during Sue Myrick's town hall meeting with the local Muslim community in Charlotte. The person behind the podium is nationally known speaker, Dr. Zuhdi Jasser. You might recognize Jasser from his appearances on national television. He is a Conservative practicing Muslim who openly talks against the radicalization happening in America today. During the town hall meeting, Jasser, pointed out that some in the audience were in "denial" about the radicalization as evidenced by their failure to speak out against it. He also pointed out for the first time in public (to my knowledge) the fact that the Charlotte Islamic Center (ICC) was owned by NAIT, the North American Islamic Trust - a group the US Justice Department named as an un-indicted co-conspirator to the Holy Land Foundation Trial (Dallas, TX 2008) - a trial that resulted in convictions of 108 counts of money laundering to the terrorist group HAMAS. During that trial, NAIT was linked to the Islamist group, Muslim Brotherhood. The photo you see here is the Charlotte Media Corps during Jasser's speech where some of this information is being shared. Notice they are not filming. They are not even listening. They either could care less, or more than likely do not have the discernment to understand what is being discussed right in front of them.

Financial Jihad Seminar in DC

FAMILY POLICY LECTURES
You are cordially invited to a Family Policy Lecture at the Family Research Council
“Financial Jihad: How Radical Islam–through Wall Street–Threatens America’s Families and Freedom”
WHO: Joy Brighton Islamic Banking Specialist
WHEN: Thursday, March 11, 2010 11:00 a.m. (EST)
WHERE: Family Research Council
Media Center 801 G Street NW Washington, DC 20001
RSVP: 800-225-4008 or online at www.frc.org (Click on Events)
You must RSVP to be admitted to this lecture.
This lecture will be available online at www.frc.org on March 12.
Complimentary lunch will be provided after the lecture.
Joy Brighton, MBA, is a former Wall Street trader who is part of an international team of experts concerned about the non-transparent risks of the Shariah Islamic Finance Investment market. Joy was a fixed-income salesperson/trader for Lehman Brothers and a mortgage pipeline hedge trader for Chase Home Mortgage. Joy has taught courses in securities and investments at various colleges. Joy also worked as an executive coach, catering to investment professionals. In 2008, she created www.stopshariahnow.org, a project of ACTforAmerica. Joy is a graduate of Fordham University with a Masters in Counseling and a graduate of Columbia Business School.
Joy speaks with Congress and other groups concerned about national security and the preservation of free capital markets as an Islamic Banking Specialist.
Ms. Brighton is also active in women’s rights and partnered with SAVE THE CHILDREN in 1998 to create one of the first microfinance programs and literacy courses for women in Mozambique.

Grab a copy of HR 3200 and Meet Me in the Shower


I'm not a huge Dick Morris fan, but he put together an excellent list of the Members of Congress likely to be the swing votes on the health care bill. These are the people whom President Obama and Rahm "no towel" Emanuel will be twisting arms and cutting deals with over the next two weeks. Good list to use if you want to call and do your own arm twisting.

Remembering Fern Holland

The following was written by a member of our staff, Andy Polk. It ran in the Washington Examiner today and I think you will find it very touching. http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/columns/OpEd-Contributor/Andy-Polk-Fern-Holland-is-a-hero-worth-remembering-86675022.html

Mar 8, 2010

In Case You Missed This


In case you missed Keith Larson on WBT radio today, the following link is Larson's interview with Dr. Zuhdi Jasser, founder of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy. Some of you will remember that Dr. Jasser was one of the individuals whom Sue Myrick invited to speak at her Muslim Town Hall meeting in February. He is a practicing Conservative Muslim who is outspoken in his beliefs that mainstream American Muslims begin speaking out against terrorism and radicalization.


About half way through the interview, the head of the Charlotte Islamic Center calls into the show to voice his displeasure with the conversation. That is when the real interview begins. Enjoy the show.

Many thanks to Zuhdi for the courage of his convictions and willingness to speak out!

Mar 6, 2010

Sue Myrick Is A Patriot


The above sign popped up last week in Raleigh to thank Sue Myrick for her counter-terrorism work. I love it.

New Washington, DC Job Leads


New job listings in Republican offices on Capitol Hill:

March 4, 2010
Legislative Assistant - The Office of Congressman Adam Putnam (R-FL) seeks a Legislative Assistant for the DC office whose primary focus will be healthcare. Qualified applicants will have excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of the legislative process, and a background in healthcare policy. Responsibilities will include briefing the Congressman on relevant policy developments and upcoming votes as well as drafting legislation, memos and constituent correspondence. The ideal candidate will have significant Hill experience and the ability to complete assignments in a timely manner. Florida ties a plus. Please email resume, cover letter, and a writing sample letter putnam.scheduler@mail.house.gov with subject line: LA Resume. No calls, drop-ins, or faxes, please.

Legislative Correspondent - Senior Northeast Republican seeks a Legislative Correspondent for DC office. Responsibilities include processing all constituent mail in a timely manner and requires: printing letters, managing incoming emails, drafting constituent responses, and using the IQ computer program. Further responsibilities include a thorough knowledge of website management: including posting pictures, adding text and sending weekly E-newsletter. Excellent writing skills are a must, as well as the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. This position requires strong interpersonal and analytical skills. Candidates must be a self-starter and have the ability to interact as a team member in a small office. New Jersey ties are preferred. Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample and three references to opportunity2442@gmail.com.

Internship - Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA-22) is accepting applications for paid and unpaid DC internships beginning mid-April. Interns assist with policy research and projects, constituent services such as leading tours of the Capitol, and general office administrative duties. The internship is an excellent opportunity to learn how Congress works. Join a dynamic office and experience first-hand the political and public policy process. Applicants must have at least junior standing and a 3.0 GPA; college graduates also encouraged to apply. To apply, please complete the internship application available on the website: https://owa.house.gov/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.kevinmccarthy.house.gov/. Include days and times available, attach a resume and writing sample, and send to Ashley.mettler@mail.house.gov .

Interns - The office of Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is currently seeking 2 full-time interns for the spring semester of 2010 in the Washington, D.C. office. Responsibilities include conducting tours of the Capitol, answering the telephones, organizing and inputting constituent correspondence, and aiding legislative staff on special projects. Interns are also given the opportunity to attend hearings and briefings to enhance their experience on Capitol Hill. Successful candidates will be highly motivated, detail oriented, and able to multi-task. This is an unpaid internship that, dependant upon your institution, may be eligible for college credit. Qualified applicants should send a resume and cover letter to danielle.barrow@mail.house.gov.

Spring Internship – The office of Congressman Darrell Issa is looking for motivated, hard-working interns to begin the week of March 15th in the Washington, DC office. The internship is unpaid and both full and part-time applicants are encouraged to apply. Interns are responsible for assisting the legislative staff with research, attending hearings and briefings, leading visitors on tours of the Capitol and answering phones. Interested applicants should e-mail cover letter, resume and a short writing sample to CA49DCinternship@mail.house.gov .

March 1, 2010
Interns - Congressman Lamborn’s office is now accepting applications for this Summer’s 2010 Congressional Leadership Program. This paid Associate Program is an experience unique to Congressman Lamborn’s office and is open to students and graduates who have completed at least 2 years of college. Strong ties to the fifth Congressional District in Colorado are a must. For more information on the Congressional Leadership Program and to apply, please visit the internship section at http://www.lamborn.house.gov/.

February 25, 2010
Legislative Assistant - The Office of Congressman Ted Poe (R-TX) seeks a proactive Legislative Assistant for the DC office whose primary focus will be growth and administration of the Victim’s Rights Caucus, a bi-partisan effort that advocates and provides a voice for all victims of all types of crime. Qualified applicants will have experience in meeting planning and building coalitions. A secondary component of this position is handling legislative issue areas, such as; Humanities, House Administration, Labor, Education, Housing, Women’s and Civil Rights, Consumer Protection, Government Reforms, Social Security and Agriculture. These responsibilities include formulating and writing legislation, briefing the Congressman on relevant policy developments and staffing the Member. The ideal candidate will have Hill experience, able to manage multiple projects at the same time and perform well under tight deadlines. Strong interpersonal, writing and analytical skills are a must. Candidates must be a self-starter and have a proven record of implementing legislative initiatives. Texas ties a plus. Please email resume, cover letter, and a writing sample letter to janet.diaz-brown@mail.house.gov, with subject line: Attn: LA - VRC Position. No calls, drop-ins, or faxes, please.

February 22, 2010
Communications Director – Congressman Tom Rooney (R-FL) seeks a Communications Director to oversee all aspects of the Congressman’s press and new media strategy. The successful candidate must possess excellent written and oral communications skills, political acumen and be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously with an emphasis on delivering earned media in the district. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: drafting/distributing press releases; writing a weekly op-ed or letter to the editor; weekly e-newsletter; updating and improving the website; preparation of talking points and speeches; establishing and maintaining strong relations with local media and executing an aggressive earned local media campaign. New media skills are a must. The ideal candidate will also have knowledge of video, audio and/or photography and editing in those mediums. The successful candidate will have a pro-active, can-do attitude and be a team player. Prior communications/media relations experience and Florida ties are preferred. Please send cover letter, resume, references and two writing samples to jobsfl16@mail.house.gov. No Calls, Faxes or Drop-Ins.

Scheduler - Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-TX) is seeking a Scheduler. Candidates must be extremely organized and have demonstrated ability to follow through on assignments in a timely manner; work well in a fast-paced environment under pressure; and be able to successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: managing incoming scheduling requests, scheduling the Congresswoman’s DC and District meetings and events, arranging flights and other travel for the Congresswoman, and submitting the Congresswoman’s expenses for reimbursement. Texas ties and previous scheduling experience preferred but not required. Please send resume to chelsey.hickman@mail.house.gov with “Scheduler Opening” in the subject line. No calls, faxes, or drop-ins, please.

Internship - Congressman Doug Lamborn (C0-05) is requesting resumes for clever and motivated individuals for the DC office internship program. An ideal candidate will be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, have excellent communication skills, and be a team player. The candidate will gain valuable Hill experience by assisting the Congressman’s staff with his House Armed Services Committee assignment, conducting legislative research, assembling press clippings, responding to constituent mail, and providing Capitol tours. Interested applicants can email a cover letter and resume to abby.gunderson@mail.house.gov. Please indicate if you are interested in a part-time or full-time work schedule.

Paid Internship - The Office of Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) is currently seeking a paid intern for the Spring. Responsibilities include answering phone calls, giving capitol tours, organizing and sorting mail, responding to constituent correspondence and aiding legislative staff. Kansas ties are preferred but not required. Please send a resume and cover letter KS02jobs@gmail.com

Summer Internship - The office of Congressman Tom McClintock (R-CA-04) is seeking conservative interns to begin in May 2010 and continue until August 2010 in the Washington, DC office. Position responsibilities include assisting in day to day office operations: answering phones, sorting and drafting correspondence, giving Capitol tours, researching legislation, attending legislative hearings and events, and any other duties as requested by staff members. Candidates should have a strong work ethic, work well as a part of a small team, and possess a positive attitude. This internship is unpaid. College credit, if applicable, will be provided. Recent college graduates are also welcome to apply. Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to Kimberly Unitt-Zupkus at kim.unitt-zupkus@mail.house.gov with “Summer Internship” in the subject line.

February 18, 2010
Unpaid DC Internship - Senate Republican Conference seeks undergraduate students or recent graduates for May 17 –mid-August 2010 to assist professional staff. Responsibilities include administrative tasks, conducting research, assisting with press events, and strategically thinking with staff members regarding different governmental issues. Candidates should possess strong writing and research skills. Prior political experience is preferred; Spanish fluency a plus. Only full-time internships are available. You can learn more about the SRC by going to src.senate.gov or republican.senate.gov. Visit alexander.senate.gov to learn more about Senator Alexander who chairs the conference. Please email a cover letter, resume, and writing sample no more than 3 pages to resumes@src.senate.gov. Deadline for applications is March 19, 2010.

February 15, 2010
Internship - Capitol Hill internship available for the summer term to assist Congressman Ed Royce (CA-40) and his staff in the overall day-to-day operations of the office by answering telephones, greeting visitors, guiding tours of the Capitol, investigating constituent requests, and drafting responses. As an intern, you will be assigned research projects as needed. Interns have the opportunity to attend committee hearings and otherwise take advantage of the unique perspective of Capitol Hill. We make it a priority to give our interns a first hand view of the legislative process and we make every effort to provide them with a worthwhile learning experience. This is an excellent opportunity for current college students or recent graduates interested in obtaining Capitol Hill experience. Please fax or email cover letter and resume to (202) 226-0335 or royceinternships@mail.house.gov.

February 11, 2010
Press Secretary - Congressman Geoff Davis (R-KY) is seeking a Press Secretary. The successful candidate must have excellent written and oral communications skills, political acumen and be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Focus is on maximizing direct connections with constituents and local media. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: drafting/distributing press releases; writing a weekly column; targeted communication through list acquisition, development, expansion and messaging; weekly e-newsletter; development and coordination of all franked materials; planning and preparation for tele-town hall meetings; updating and improving the website; preparation of talking points and speeches; establishing and maintaining strong relations with local media and executing an aggressive earned local media campaign. New media skills are a plus, a desire to learn is required, including websites and e-newsletters (understanding of code), video, audio and/or photography and editing in those mediums. Additional projects will be assigned from time to time. The successful candidate will have a can-do attitude and be a team player. Prior communications/media relations experience and Kentucky ties are preferred. Please send cover letter, resume, a writing sample and a short constructive critique (no more than a page total) of Congressman Davis’ most recent column and a page or section of the website https://owa.house.gov/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://GeoffDavis.house.gov to: KY04Jobs@gmail.com with “Press Secretary” in the subject line. No Calls, Faxes or Drop-Ins.

Legislative Director - Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) is seeking a Legislative Director to advance his agenda and manage legislative operations. The ideal candidate will have interest in Homeland Security Committee work and experience in health care, energy, and environmental issues. This position requires applicant to have highly proficient writing and editing skills. Previous experience managing legislative and constituent correspondence staff is a plus, as are Florida ties. Please email cover letter and resume to FL09jobs@gmail.com

Intern - Congressman Fleming (LA-04) is seeking an intern who shares his conservative values and can start immediately. Responsibilities of the position will include administrative duties, including answering phones and greeting visitors, leading Capitol tours, and assisting the Legislative Correspondent with mail processing, writing, research, and various other duties as assigned. Candidates must have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and demonstrated writing skills. Please email resume and a cover letter to LA04intern@gmail.com with “Fleming Internship” marked in the subject line for consideration. Congressman Fleming’s internships are primarily for education purposes and are unpaid. However, he will be happy to award class credit if applicable.