Category Archives: Politics

Political Influence: The Importance of Social and Political Capital

Posted on April 30, 2008 by Patrick Lester

Political influence in Washington depends substantially on social and political capital — i.e., reputations and relationships. Forms of social and political capital include preexisting relationships, reputations, trust, shared values, past alliances, and favors owed. Developing this capital takes effort and … Continue reading →

Posted in Politics

Political Influence: The Importance of Staff

Posted on April 30, 2008 by Patrick Lester

Political influence in Washington greatly depends on access and influence with key congressional and executive branch staff. This reality was well-described in the following excerpts from the 1988 classic, The Power Game, by Hedrick Smith. The Importance of Congressional Staff … Continue reading →

Posted in Politics

Political Influence: The Importance of Issue Expertise

Posted on April 30, 2008 by Patrick Lester

Influence in Washington is primarily about “what you know” and “who you know.”  The “what you know” piece of this equation is about substantive, issue-based expertise.  Public policy issues are often complex.  What is the problem being addressed?  What are … Continue reading →

Posted in Evidence, Politics