casework

In this week's Virtual Staff Happy Hour, our academic partners will join us to discuss innovative techniques for conducting online and telephone town halls and how these improved methods could make a difference during the COVID-19 crisis.

CMF is pleased to offer House and Senate staff a new resource on congressional casework. Written by a District Chief of Staff with more than three decades of experience, the title for this how-to guide for casework explains it all: "The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly: What Works, What Doesn't, And Everything In Between: Process, Procedures, Common Sense, Advice, Conundrums, And Best Practices."

In our continuing series about Gold Mouse criteria, this week's topic is about meeting the needs of your constituents online. Every Member office website should answer constituent questions about how the office can assist them with specific federal agency issues. In addition, your website should include information on all of the basic services that congressional offices provide, such as internships, flag requests, and tours. Fortunately, most of the drafting of this content need only be done once, and does not require significant updating unless policies change.

Ah, it’s that time of the decade again! As you know, every ten years states undergo a redrawing of districts that affects the make-up and boundaries of each district – and will impact your boss’ constituency in the coming Congress. In some districts the population might not be altered very much, but in others the Member’s constituency could be completely different.  You may end up representing a new ethnic population or add a military post. Whatever the results may be, it is important for you and your new constituents to get to know one another so that your office can provide the best possible service. CMF has outlined five areas you should keep in mind while learning about and supporting your boss’ new constituency.