Walk the corridors of the Capitol and witness the legislative process for yourself with this fast-paced, in-depth course. Hear from members of Congress, congressional staffers, journalists and advocates and observe the House and Senate floor action as you explore how bills are initiated, written and passed.

Speakers highlight current national policy issues and explain the importance of the committee process, floor procedure, advocacy and the relationship between Congress and the media. Your new knowledge of Congress will help you advance your legislative agenda long after your week on Capitol Hill has ended. Take this program together with Inside Washington: Understanding the Governing Process to get an extensive, firsthand guide to how government really works.

Confirmed speakers for the May 13-17, 2013 Inside Congress course include:

• Stephen Billet, Director, Legislative Affairs, Graduate School of Political Management, George Washington University
• Jim Papa, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Global Strategy Group; Former Special Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs; Former House and Senate senior staffer
• Congressman Bob Carr, (D –MI); Former Chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee, Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives
• Jonathan Weisman, Congressional Correspondent, The New York Times
• Nancy Dolan, Democratic Staff Director, Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, House of Representatives

Participant David Sickey, Member of Council, Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, Office of the Tribal Council, comments on his experience in the September 2012 iteration of Inside Congress — Understanding Congressional Operations:

 “This program is second to none.  In terms of topics, materials, information and organization and practical knowledge gained.  This BEE program should be required for all elected officials, civic leaders and the average citizen.  Understanding congressional operations certainly has the Brookings Institution status and excellence!”