Political Caucuses

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Political Caucuses Nina Ozlu Tunceli Chief
Counsel, Govt Public Affairs Americans for the
Arts
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Background

• Bicameral and Bipartisan
• Congressional Arts Caucus (since 1997)
• 178 members
• Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY)
• Rep. Chris Shays (R-CT)
• Senate Cultural Caucus (since 2001)
• 33 members
• Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA)
• Sen. Mike Enzi (R-WY)
• Sen. Norm Coleman (R-MN)

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Purpose of Caucuses

• Political Leadership
• Peer-to-Peer Advocacy
• Single Policy Issue Focus
• Neutral Ground
• Member Access
• Hearings
• Voting Blocs

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Role of Public Advocacy Organizations

• Recruitment
• Staffing
• Briefings
• Research
• Legislation
• Witnesses
• Mobilization
• Media
• Events
• Resources

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Congressional Resource Website

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Tips for Success

• Bipartisan Leadership
• Good Working Relationships
• Regular Communications
• Annual Goals
• Successful Wins
• Make Caucus Membership Matter