Late Monday Night

Monday was a very busy day. The phone calls rolled in throughout the day. I heard many different tales ranging from how socialized medicine has ruined the European nations to how the big insurance companies had cost the health of more than one individual. I did spend a portion of the day away from the phones. Most notably was the majority of the afternoon when I was inside of the Congressman's office, working on helping to presort mail for one of the L.A.'s. I had the opportunity to read in detail many varying letters randing from energy and environment concerns to health care and abortion letters. It becomes tiring after a while trying to determine which letters are alike and need to be answered in similar fashions.

After the day in the office wrapped up I had the opportunity to accompany the majority of our staff to a reception down on I street near the White House. There was a nice assortment of finger foods as well as an open bar for those old enough to partake of the cocktails. This event was mostly aimed at Kansans because the highlight of the reception was a private screening of "What's the Matter with Kansas" with two former Congressman in attendance, Jim Slattery and Dan Glickman who also served as the Secretary of Agriculture. The movie discussed how Kansas has been the scene of culture polarities throughout its history, from having a socialized newspaper to being a "God Haven State" with one of the strongest ties to the Republican party.

I would recommend seeing the flick once it goes mainstream (if they can find a distributor) if you are interested in Kansas politics and as a State. Some may find parts of it irritating but funny (both Republicans and Democrats) with a wide array of interesting characters. The filmmakers, who were present for this showing, handled a good Q/A session about the making of the movie and expressed that it was their goal to present an unbiased view of Kansans and their politics. It struck me as a bit odd then that the former Congressmen, to some extent, used the Q/A time as a forum to showcase themselves.

As someone suggested to me, it is hard for people, who once had all the attention of the 'bully pulpit of an elected official' to not be in the limelight when in public gatherings.

I'm appreciative of the many dimensions of my Internship including the chance to join in the out-of-work opportunities that are broadening my perspectives on what congressional staffers do.