There have been some very interesting bills in committee today. I have really enjoyed listening to those that have been laid out before the committee. In my job at the committee, I have no input. Committees offices are generally apolitical. Our job, for the most part, is clerical. Due to hard deadlines and being subject to accepting bills from all members, there is no time or leeway to be political. As a committee clerk, you almost have to see bills as mere numbers. I say almost because clerks have to read the bills and write bill analyses. Otherwise, it’s a process that applies to all equally.
Depending on your preferences, if you want to work at the Capitol, you should consider your tolerance for politics. If politics is not your cup of tea, consider working in a clerical capacity. There are plenty of such jobs here early in the session. You can work for a committee, House Administration, or work on the House floor for the support functions like the Chief Clerk’s office, the Journal Clerk’s office, or some other similar clerical position. In these jobs, you are expected to be apolitical. Being overly friendly with House Members is frowned upon because these offices should not show favoritism.
If you are more politically minded, you should work directly for a House member. Keep in mind, you still need to be courteous to other offices and members. Even though you represent your rep and are an advocate for him or her, any Rep could ask to allow you to succeed OUTSIDE the House of Reps. You can favor your boss, but that does not give you license to be a jerk towards the others. Still, you can’t be blamed for playing favorites.
Keep in mind that working for a Rep does not automatically make you a part of the campaign. IF you choose to work for the campaign, it should be after work. If you are a die-hard political type, working the campaign is up your alley. In that capacity, only the boss can fire you and you are expected to highly advocate for your boss over the opposition.
So, you see, there are opportunities out there for different degrees of political interest. In my experience, I have the opportunity to see different parts of working for the House of Reps. I have also had the opportunity to talk to people in different job capacities. There are opportunities for people of most temperaments.
Shaine 