Computing Researchers Make the Case for Computing Research to Lawmakers in Washington

By Brian Mosley, Associate Director, Government Affairs

On September 20, 2023, twenty-two computing researchers from across the country visited Washington, D.C. to make the case for federally funded computing research. The volunteers, traveling from as near as Maryland and North Carolina, and as far away as Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Indiana, participated in over 55 House and Senate meetings. Their message to Congress was very simple: Federally supported computing research is vital to the nation’s future. Using their own research and individual stories as support, and reinforced with additional information from CRA, they made the “Federal case” for computing to Members of Congress and their staff. Those Members of Congress now know more about the expertise and interesting (and important) computing work that occurs in their districts and states, and our participants have a sense of just who represents them in Congress.  And they’ve hopefully started a lasting dialogue on both sides.

If you would like to participate in a future Congressional Visit Day, or are in Washington, D.C. and would like to visit your representative’s office, please contact Brian Mosley in the CRA Government Affairs Office. CRA can provide expert training, messaging, and materials, and we would also be happy to accompany you to your Congressional meetings.