Side Notes

Three July 5ths, in 1776, 1813, and 1994, offer lessons on getting information to people, upholding the rule of law, and preparing for the unknown.

A story from an early internship in public service offers three lessons about responding to constituents, adapting to unexpected demands, and understanding the work behind public service.

Good policy proposals often die in the process of becoming law, policy, precedent, or regulation, as bureaucracy, competing priorities, and internal group friction create difficult tradeoffs.

Policy discussions operate in two spaces: the organizations and systems that shape policy, and the personal experiences of people directly affected by it.