🗳️ With election day around the corner on September 9th, James has quite a bit to say on the importance of campaigns. In fact, he encourages everyone to work on one at some point!

Having managed Congressman Gerry Connolly's campaigns as well as his own, James shares that campaigns help you to understand exactly how all 535 Members of Congress got to their spot. Also, you get face-to-face experience with voters that you simply can't find while on the Hill.

"It's a really powerful experience because you get to hear directly from people about whatever their challenges are ... I think that helped me establish a strong bond with the people I represent," says James.

🚪 ... And James really prioritizes hearing from people! During his first campaign in 2019, he knocked on 15,000 doors over the course of 10-11 months.

Working for Connolly, James would often hear him mention his time in local government and how important it was. Looking back, James agrees. You're able to develop close relationships with constituents, become a part of the neighborhood, and see tangible progress.

"If you want to work in politics or government, the most important thing is that you can enjoy and appreciate people and the human condition. You have to be able to laugh at the ridiculousness of all of us – yourself maybe most importantly," says James.

☕️ One more (random) thing: Starbucks or Dunkin' in Longworth? James' cafe of choice is a 7-Eleven. From the coffee lovers at CNCT, this isn't a wrong answer just... a different one.