[chickadee]

I agree that the newly elected reps will need a veteran staffer to keep things going smoothly, but each new arrival should bring someone with him/her to keep a close watch on what is going on. This person needs to outrank the “veteran” in the pecking order.

[tanknetter]

I agree that the newly elected reps will need a veteran staffer to keep things going smoothly, but each new arrival should bring someone with him/her to keep a close watch on what is going on. This person needs to outrank the “veteran” in the pecking order.

That's it, exactly. The BIG problem, that will be made worse if allowed to, are the Committee Staffs ... which will be under the control of the 'old guard' and will have even more power if the Freshman staff their offices completely with campaign staff/outsiders.

Smart incoming members will find a way to balance their staffs so they can champion and effect reform while also working effectively within the byzantine nature of Congressional politics.

That calls for lots of reform-minded staff, but also a couple/few (maybe 25-30%) "DC Insiders" who understand how the game is played and will work to help the Freshman keep the Leadership and Committee Staffs honest and forward-looking.

[chilltherats]

I agree. Use what is necessary or salvageable from the current crop but don’t give them any power. Their experience is valuable. Their decisions are not.

[FreedomPoster]

That’s exactly how things should be done.

[rockinqsranch]

Disagree although it sounds like the correct procedure under the circumstances I would like to point out that the insiders will run circles around the newbie’s allowing the newbie elect to be left in the dust.

The newbie has to come in with good basic knowledge of how their new environment operates, and they must be in total control of all of their communications, and their actions.

I’m not saying be rude, be untouchable, just cautious, and question everything, and everyone until the correct course becomes the obvious course.

The established incumbant RINO’s especially will attempt to take advantage of the newbie status, the early bewilderment, and confusion to establish their pecking order, and lead the newbie down their path.

The newbie must be strong, and must be willing to spend the time building a wall against those established incumbants circling them twirling leashes as they attempt to round up, and corral the newbies for their own pleasures. The incumbants want the newbies to do precisely what they want them to do.

[skr]

Both good points.