It seems like WEEKS since the Wonk has imparted her two cents about the state of our national political landscape. What gives? Are you on some extended holiday? Perhaps one of those nifty European cruises that take you to twenty-one cities in twenty-three days! The Wonk can only dream.

I am sorry to say I was hospitalized twice in the last month because I have had an extremely low white blood cell count due to Lupus. Although I met some lovely folks, it is not an experience I want to repeat! I am feeling MUCH better these days! Nevertheless, the Wonk took some time to think and decided it is time to stop writing this column as well as other forms of social media. I have enjoyed writing this weekly missive immensely and hope that I have been able to “pull back the curtain” to give you some insight into the workings of Capitol Hill.

I thought it might be helpful to leave you some resources which you can use, Dear Reader, to track what’s going on.

Here are my favorite websites—and why:

• The Hill: this website offers a quick snapshot of what’s going happening on Capitol Hill. I check it several times a day.
• The Washington Post: I read this regularly—but not necessarily for the news. The Post often has important editorials which often drive discussions that day.
• Politico: this website often has provocative articles which help you make sense of an issue. I typically read several articles in order to actually learn as opposed to rehashing what I already know.
• Roll Call: This website gives you an idea of what Congress will consider that week. This publication has been around for a long time and I trust them.
• Real Clear Politics: this website gives you the news from all points of view. Moreover, they publish tons of statistics which we wonks really enjoy! Finally, A.B. Stoddard is an associate editor of this website and she’s excellent!
• Vox: this website always has useful in-depth information. Many of the writers for this website began at the Post and have outstanding reputations.

As you navigate happenings on Capitol Hill, here are a few things to remember:

• It’s imperative to look at both sides of any given issue! You may not like what the other side has to say—but it may help you see the issue more clearly.
• Don’t know where to turn in order to find out about hearings? Go to Congress.gov. This website gives you information about legislation as well as various committees of the House and Senate.
• Stay in touch with State and local coalitions of like-minded folks. This will help you gain an understanding of what’s really going on.
• Finally, when you meet with a member of Congress, always leave a handout!! This handout should summarize the issue(s) you are concerned about and give contact information including a phone number!! You never know what could happen if an eager young staff person decides to take on your issue.

It has been my pleasure to produce the Wednesday Wonk for you these last several years! It has been fun! I still plan to write and—who knows—maybe you’ll see my work again sometime in the future. For now, I wish each of you the very best!!

Yours,

The Wednesday Wonk

PS If you’d like to get in touch with me, I can be reached here.