Dear Friends,
The longest federal government shutdown in history has finally come to an end. To the many, many federal employees in GAI’s orbit we want to say welcome back and thank you for your service during this incredibly challenging time. We also hope you’ll take time to enjoy this month’s piece from Senior Fellow Laura Blessing, which she has called a love letter to federal employees. It’s a layered and important look at the critical role of civil servants and Americans’ attitudes toward those who make our federal government run.
With the shutdown stalemate behind them, Congress returns next week to face a daunting to-do list. In the House, out of session for the better part of two months, the pile-up is particularly acute; expect a flurry of committee hearings and Floor activity, not to mention a high-profile vote on requiring the disclosure of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. Both chambers still need to settle their differences on the National Defense Authorization Act, pass nine more spending bills before January 30, and (in the Senate at least) set up a vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies.
I’ll close by sharing a couple of updates from GAI. First, we have moved! After decades in our home in Georgetown, our building was sold and we’ve relocated to the World Wildlife Fund building at 1250 24 th St, NW. We’re excited about the transition, particularly the ability to host more trainings in-house. We hope to welcome many of you to our new office in the future. We
also have a refreshed “home” online, with a brand-new website we think will be more informative and easier to navigate. Have a look around, and as always don’t hesitate to get in touch if we can help with tailored training or information about our classes.
Wishing you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving,
Kristin
