CBA Intern Guide 119th Congress

CBA Intern

Handbook A Resource for Understanding Congress & Your Role

2 0 2 5 119th Congress 1st Session

Table of Contents A Welcome from our CBA President

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A Welcome from our CBCF Liaison

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2025-2026 CBA Executive Board

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How Congress Functions

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Congressional Leadership

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Differences Between House & Senate

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House Leadership

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House Committees

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Senate Leadership

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Senate Committees

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Working in a Congressional Office

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8 Tips for Networking & Building Authentic Relationships

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On & Off-Hill Organizations

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A Welcome from our CBA President On behalf of the Congressional Black Associates, I am honored to welcome you to Capitol Hill and into a powerful legacy of Black excellence, leadership, and service.

Whether you are joining us through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation or another pathway, know that your presence here is no accident—it is the result of your talent, hard work, and the doors opened by those who came before you. You are walking into a space where your voice matters, your perspective is needed, and your impact will be lasting.

For 45 years, CBA has been a leader in enhancing the political, social, and economic well-being of Black staffers on the Hill. Our work is expansive, comprising professional development programs and networking events, and we provide opportunities that position staffers to become leaders both on and off the Hill. This mission drives everything we do and connects each of us across generations of service and ambition.

As you begin your journey, know that CBA is here to support you. We are a family, a network, and a resource that is committed to uplifting one another and ensuring no one walks alone. We encourage you to ask questions, build relationships, and take up space boldly. You BELONG here.

We’re excited to meet you, work alongside you, and watch you thrive. Let this be the start of something extraordinary.

Javonni D. Ayers 2025 CBA President

A Welcome from our CBCF Liaison Congratulations on your Congressional internship! Whether you’ve arrived through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation or another program, you are beginning a rewarding journey of service and learning. This guide is designed to familiarize you with the structure of Capitol Hill, introduce you to the many organizations that operate here, and provide practical advice for navigating this unique environment.

In my role, I work to strengthen the partnership between the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and the Congressional Black Associates. This includes meeting with interns and fellows to discuss how to maximize their time on the Hill. While the pace and terminology can feel overwhelming at first, you will quickly find that there are abundant opportunities to grow and contribute. Take advantage of them, build meaningful connections, and remember that support and resources are always available to help you succeed.

Taron Henton 2025 CBCF Liaison

2025-2026 CBA Executive Board

Javonni D. Ayers President

Ruby Tavernier Vice President

Sharif Long Treasurer / Membership Chair

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Jerdashia Scott Community Service Director

Rylan Grey Social Engagement Director

Raiyana Malone Professional Development Director

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Email

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Jaylene Kennedy Communications Director

Saisha White Parliamentarian

Chezney Cunningham Secretary

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Email

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Taron Henton CBCF Liaison

Reynolds Boadi District Liaison

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Email

How Congress Functions Introduction As established by Article 1 of the U.S. Constitution, the United States Congress is composed of two parts. The first is the House of Representatives with 435 representatives elected for two years based on the population of the state they represent. The second is the Senate, with 100 senators elected for six years with each state receiving 2 senators.

Congressional Powers Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution lays out specific powers given to Congress. These include the power to: Set and Collect Taxes Borrow Money Regulate Commerce between Foreign Nations, States, and Territories Establish Rules of Citizenship Coin Physical Money and Provide Punishment for Counterfeits Establish Post Offices and Roads Grant Patents Create Federal Courts Define Maritime Crimes Declare War Raise Armies Maintain a Navy Call for Militias to Execute Federal Laws, Suppress Insurrections, and Repel Invasions Make All “Necessary and Proper” Laws to Execute Congressional Powers

Congressional Leadership Leadership in the House and Senate are responsible for five main functions: Oversight of the Chamber Management of Floor Procedure (How legislation will be voted on) and the Legislative Agenda Media Relations Political Operations Development and Coordination of Policy Positions

Leadership positions include: Speaker of the House - Elected by the entire House of Representatives for the purpose of running the general operations of the House, appoints Chairs to House Committees, sets the legislative agenda for the House, and serves as the Chief Spokesperson for the House.

Senate President Pro Tempore - Presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President.

Majority Leader - Elected by the Majority Party and serves as the Chief Spokesperson for the Majority Party.

Minority Leader - Elected by the Minority Party and serves as the Chief Spokesperson for the Minority Party.

Whip - The whip is responsible for organizing their respective caucus for votes and ensuring Members are aware of the party’s position on legislation.

Caucus Leadership - The two major political parties (Democrats and Republicans) organize themselves into caucuses. Caucus Chairs, Secretaries, and Policy Chairs lead their parties in the development of policy agendas, leadership selections, and more.

Campaign Committees - The National Republican Congressional Committee and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee serve as the principal fundraising arms for members of the House of Representatives, alongside their Senate counterparts (National Republican Senatorial Committee and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee).

Differences Between House & Senate Role of the House The exclusive powers of the House of Representatives are established in Article 1, Section 2 of the United States Constitution. Each state is comprised of Representatives based on that state’s population and elected every two years. Representatives must be at least 25 years old, been a U.S. citizen for seven years, and an inhabitant of their state.

The House has the sole power of impeachment, which is the legislative mechanism of removing a federal elected official from office. Additionally, the House has the sole power to draft bills for raising revenue.

Role of the Senate The powers of the Senate are set in Article I, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution. Each state has two Senators elected to six year terms.

Senators must be 30 years old, have been a U.S. citizen for at least nine years, and an inhabitant of their state.

The Senate has the sole power to try impeachment trials, approve treaties, and confirm federal officials nominated by the President. Unlike the House, the President of the Senate is the Vice President. However, the Senate has been traditionally run by the Majority Party Leader.

Committee Purposes Each Chamber organizes itself through Committees. Members are placed on Committees based on party selections, career experiences, and other factors.

Committees consider bills and conduct oversight of agencies, programs, and activities within their jurisdiction. Witness and oversight hearings involve members calling members of the public, military officials, subject-matter experts, and whomever the Committee decides to testify on the matter at hand.

Legislative hearings (referred to as markup) are usually convened to consider a piece of legislation referred to the committee by the Parliamentarian. Members can offer amendments and make remarks on legislation before it is voted upon to go to the floor for a full House or Senate vote. With thousands of pieces of legislation proposed each Congress, committee consideration of a bill is highly political and usually fits into the political agenda of the majority party. The leader of each chamber can also create Task Forces (Task Force on the Attempted Assassination of Donald Trump) and Select Committees (Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol) that serve temporary purposes for a narrow legislative or investigative focus.

Committee Leadership and Staff The Chair of the Committee, who is appointed by the majority leader of the chamber or elected by Committee members, sets the agenda for the committee and establishes subcommittees. The Ranking Member is usually highest ranked minority member on the Committee and serves as the principal voice of the minority party on the Committee. Committee staff is led by a Staff Director who oversees a team of Counsels and Professional Staff members that prepare for hearings, select witnesses, and serve as subject matter experts for the rest of the Chamber.

Congressional Caucuses Congressional members will organize themselves into caucuses that represent policy interests, political affiliations, affinities, and other areas. There are hundreds of caucuses ranging from trade-based such as the Congressional Agriculture Trade Caucus to drink-based such as the Congressional Bourbon Caucus. As a CBCF Intern or CBA member, the most important of these is the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). Together, the following caucuses traditionally are referred to as the “Tri-Caucus.”

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) was established in 1971 with the purpose of using “the full Constitutional power, statutory authority, and financial resources of the federal government to ensure that African Americans and other marginalized communities in the United States have the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.” The CBC is comprised of 61 members from both the House of Representatives and Senate.

Chair: Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY) 1st Vice Chair: Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA) 2nd Vice Chair: Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) Secretary: Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA) Whip: Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA)

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) was founded in 1976 to serve as a forum for the Hispanic Members of Congress to “coalesce around a collective legislative agenda.” CHC is “dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.”

Chair: Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) Deputy Chair: Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL) Whip: Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) Vice Chair of Policy: Rep. Robert Menendez Jr. (D-NJ) President@congressionalblackassociates.com

The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus was founded in 1994. It is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander descent and members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community.

Chair: Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) 1st Vice Chair: Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) 2nd Vice Chair: Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-HI) Whip: Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA)

House Leadership Speaker of the House: Mike Johnson (R-LA)

Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA)

Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY)

Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN)

Minority Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA)

Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain (R-MI)

Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (D-CA)

Republican Conference Vice Chair Blake Moore (R-UT)

Democratic Caucus Vice Chair Ted Lieu (D-CA)

Republican Conference Secretary Erin Houchin (R-IN)

Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (D-CO)

National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) Chair Richard Hudson (R-NC)

Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) Chair Suzan DelBene (D-WA)

Republican Policy Committee Chair Gary Palmer (R-AL)

Steering and Policy Committee Chair Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY)

House Committees & Leadership Agriculture Chair: Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) Ranking Member: Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN)

Appropriations Chair: Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) Ranking Member: Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT)

Armed Services Chair: Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL) Ranking Member: Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA)

Budget Chair: Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX) Ranking Member: Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA)

Education and Workforce Chair: Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) Ranking Member: Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA)

Ethics Chair: Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS) Ranking Member: Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA)

Financial Services Chair: Rep. French Hill (R-AR) Ranking Member: Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA)

Foreign Affairs Chair: Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) Ranking Member: Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-NY)

Homeland Security Chair: Rep. Mark Green (R-TN) Ranking Member: Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS)

House Administration Chair: Rep. Bryan Steil (R-WI) Ranking Member: Rep. Joseph Morelle (D-NY)

Judiciary Chair: Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) Ranking Member: Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD)

Natural Resources Chair: Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AK) Ranking Member: Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA)

Oversight and Government Reform Chair: Rep. James Comer (R-KY) Ranking Member: Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA)

Rules Chair: Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) Ranking Member: Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA)

Science, Space, and Technology Chair: Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) Ranking Member: Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA)

Small Business Chair: Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX) Ranking Member: Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY)

Transportation and Infrastructure Chair: Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) Ranking Member: Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA)

Veterans’ Affairs Chair: Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) Ranking Member: Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA)

Ways and Means Chair: Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) Ranking Member: Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA)

Senate Leadership President of the Senate: J.D. Vance President Pro Tempore: Chuck Grassley (R-IA)

Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD)

Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY)

Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY)

Minority Whip Richard Durbin (D-IL)

Republican Conference Chair Tom Cotton (R-AR)

Democratic Steering Committee Chair Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)

Republican Policy Committee Chair Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)

Democratic Strategic Communications Chair Cory Booker (D-NJ)

Republican Conference Vice Chair James Lankford (R-OK)

Democratic Caucus Vice Chairs Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Mark Warner (D-VA)

National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) Chair Tim Scott (R-SC)

Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) Chair Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)

Senate Committees & Leadership Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chair: Sen. John Bookman (R-AR) Ranking Member: Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)

Appropriations Chair: Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) Ranking Member: Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)

Armed Services Chair: Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) Ranking Member: Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI)

Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Chair: Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) Ranking Member: Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)

Budget Chair: Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) Ranking Member: Sen. Jeff Merkely (D-OR)

Commerce, Science, and Transportation Chair: Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) Ranking Member: Sen. Maria Cantrell (D-WA)

Energy and Natural Resources Chair: Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) Ranking Member: Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM)

Environment and Public Works Chair: Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) Ranking Member: Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)

Finance Chair: Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) Ranking Member: Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR)

Foreign Relations Chair: Sen. James Risch (R-ID) Ranking Member: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)

Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Chair: Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) Ranking Member: Sen. Bernard “Bernie” Sanders (I-VT)

Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Chair: Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) Ranking Member: Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI)

Indian Affairs Chair: Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) Ranking Member: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI)

Joint Committee on Printing Chair: Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) Vice Chair: Rep. Bryan Steil (R-WI)

Joint Committee on Taxation Chair: Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) Vice Chairman: Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID)

Joint Committee on Library Chair: Rep. Bryan Steil (R-WI) Vice Chair: Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)

Joint Economic Committee Chair: Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ) Vice Chairman: Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO)

Judiciary Chair: Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) Ranking Member: Sen. Richard “Dick” Durbin (D-IL)

Rules and Administration Chair: Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) Ranking Member: Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA)

Select Committee on Ethics Chair: Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) Vice Chairman: Sen. Christopher Coons (D-DE)

Select Committee on Intelligence Chair: Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) Ranking Member: Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA)

Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair: Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) Ranking Member: Sen. Edward Markey (D-MA)

Special Committee on Aging Chair: Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) Ranking Member: Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)

Veterans’ Affairs Chair: Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) Ranking Member: Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT)

Working in a Congressional Office Member of Congress Every office is led by the elected Member of Congress. The office functions to advance the agenda set by the Member.

Chief of Staff (CoS) The Chief of Staff (CoS) leads the office in the absence of the Member. “The chief oversees the legislative and communication operations and helps coordinate relations between the Member’s personal office, committees, leadership, and state office.”

Legislative Staff The legislative staff manage the legislative priorities of the Member. This can include: “developing policy positions, researching legislative and political options, drafting bills and amendments, and shepherding them through the legislative thicket.” Congress has a host of research services to aid with legislation creation. These include the Library of Congress, Congressional Budget Office, Congressional Research Service, Government Accountability Office, and many more.

Legislative Director (LD) The Legislative Director (LD) oversees the daily legislative activities within the office and reviews all legislative work to ensure it reflects the Member’s agenda. They also brief the Member on legislative items and works with the Member to map out support for legislative actions.

Legislative Assistant/Aide (LA) The Legislative Assistant or Aide (LA) (varies between House and Senate) will usually be tasked with specializing on a specific or multiple policy areas. The LA is responsible for legislation and committees within their policy area, advancing the Member’s interest on specific legislation, and briefing the member on certain issue areas.

Legislative Correspondent (LC) The Legislative Correspondent (LC) is the entry-level position on the legislative team. They are responsible for coordinating responses to constituents on pieces of legislation that the Member has taken a position on. With some House offices receiving 100,000 communications from constituents per year, the tracking and responding to mail is an important component of any LC’s position.

Communications Staff The Communications staff is responsible for the messaging and communication of a Member’s policy positions throughout their time in office.

Communications Director (CD) The Communications Director runs the overall communication strategy for the Member. Members will trust the CD to communicate their vision to world and many times, they will serve as the Member’s chief spokesperson to the press and other media outlets. In addition, the CD oversees the Communications team.

Press Secretary In smaller offices, the Press Secretary will be the same person as the CD, yet in larger ones, the Press Secretary has the chief role as serving as the Member’s liaison with press outlets. This role can involve speaking to the press, preparing and securing the Member press interviews, and setting a general press strategy.

Digital & Press Staff Offices will have digital and press staff to handle daily communications tasks. This can involve creating social media posts, gathering press clips and mentions of the Member in media outlets, and many other items.

Schedulers Schedulers make the world go round. They set the Member’s daily schedule, handle meeting requests, and ensure that the Member’s day runs smoothly with all the responsibilities they have.

District Director & Staff The District Director is similar to the Chief of Staff whereas they run the Member’s district or state operations. This individual remains in the district, building contacts with key political and community stakeholders, and keeping a pulse on constituent needs. Every Member of Congress has staff that handles daily casework for constituents requesting assistance from the federal government.

This can include requests for aid with Social Security payments, Veteran Affairs assistance, passport renewal, immigration and visa support, and others. Many times, these individuals have the most direct interaction with constituents.

Jobs & Research Resources Congressional Administrative Officer of the House of Representatives Resources CAO Resources for House Interns (VPN Connection Required) CAO Intern to Chief Podcast (VPN Connection Required) Jobs with the CAO

Joint Economic Committee and Congressional Budget Office Resources Joint Economic Committee Annual Reports Congressional Budget Office

Congressional Research Service Resources The Reconciliation Process FAQs CRS Issue Areas - Common Issue Portfolios Found in Congressional Offices

Job Boards, Fellowships, and Internships CBA Resume Bank House Democrats Resume Bank House Republicans Resume Bank

Senate Diversity Initiative Resume Bank Jobs with the CAO Fellowships and Internships

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Tips to Networking & Building Authentic Relationships

There’s an old saying: “Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know.” That rings especially true in Washington. During your time here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to build connections—some may grow into lasting friendships or valuable professional partnerships. Sometimes those connections happen naturally, whether through your office or a happy hour event. But often, it’s up to you to take the initiative.

If someone’s career path or policy portfolio interests you, don’t hesitate to reach out. A quick email or LinkedIn message requesting an informational coffee chat can go a long way. Above all, be yourself.

People aren’t just stepping stones for career advancement—approach every interaction with respect, kindness, and authenticity.

1.Prepare Your Intro: Have a 30-second elevator pitch ready (who you are, interests, desire to connect).

2.Exchange Info: Bring business cards or use a digital app like Blinq.

3.Drink Smart: No pressure to drink alcohol—mocktails, ginger ale in a champagne glass, or water work fine.

4.Request a Coffee Chat: When requesting a coffee chat, introduce yourself, your office, and why you’d like to meet.

5.Come Prepared: Bring at least 3 thoughtful questions to discuss.

6.Be Punctual: Arrive on time—respect their schedule.

7.Close the Loop: Ask if they recommend anyone else you should meet.

8.Follow Up: Send a thank you email within 24 hours.

On & Off-Hill Organizations Purpose During your time here, you’ll find many opportunities to build connections that could lead to lasting friendships and partnerships. Congressional staff organizations—such as CBA—are common spaces where staffers come together to exchange ideas and build community. Each organization has its own membership guidelines, so don’t hesitate to reach out and learn more.

In addition, off-Hill groups often host receptions and events that create networking opportunities for staffers and members of the civic ecosystem.

The Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus (SBLSC) is a professional and social network for Black legislative staff employed by the United States Senate.

The Congressional Hispanic Staff Association (CHSA) is an official, non-partisan, bicameral Congressional Staff Organization, whose mission is to recruit, retain, and advance Hispanic staffers in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.

President@congressionalblackassociates.com

The Congressional Asian Pacific American Staff Association (CAPASA) is a non-partisan congressional staff organization designed to provide opportunities to meet Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders on Capitol Hill through professional development seminars, social networking events, and more.

The Women’s Congressional Staff Association (WCSA) provides networking and professional development opportunities, as well as members-only access to postings on job openings and events.

These resources provide information and guidance for women who want to excel at their jobs and advance in their careers.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Staff Association is the official, nonpartisan Congressional organization that is dedicated to advancing the interests of all its members and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community at large in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Black Women’s Congressional Alliance (BWCA) is a “membership organization of more than 300 bipartisan and bicameral Black women Hill staffers” with the purpose of hosting events and programs that “inform staffers of new career opportunities, provide platforms to elevate their profiles to the broader Capitol Hill community, and push for growth in diverse hiring in the United States House and Senate.”

Black Men on the Hill (BMH) seeks to foster a community of support.

The organization provides resources and connections to help Black men achieve their professional goals on and off Capitol Hill, navigate their careers, and form meaningful relationships with colleagues.

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) serves as a research and scholarship arm for the CBC. The organization serves to “advance the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public.”

The Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute (CBC Institute) is a 501 (c)(4) nonprofit, nonpartisan, social welfare organization. The mission of the CBC Institute is to “educate today’s voters and train tomorrow’s leaders.” The organization runs various programs including a political leadership boot camp, policy conferences, and a Global African Diaspora Initiative.

View more organizations here.

You deserve to be here.