Four Tennessee Republicans are among the freshman class currently getting a crash course on how the U.S. Congress works.
This week their schedules are jammed with lectures, tours and meetings, meant to teach them about everything from salaries and benefits to how to use microphones on the House floor.
In the mix of the new freshmen class is Republican Diane Black of the 6th district.
“I mean we have all the way from farmers to pizza shop owners, attorneys, nurses, doctors, dentists, it is a real variety, and I think they are going to be a very effective class.”
Black’s jockeying for a spot on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. She says it will put her in a better position to help repeal the health care law .
Republican Scott DesJarlais, a medical doctor, shares the same first term goal.
“Well it is not just me that didn’t want this legislation the American people didn’t want government takeover health care.”
As part of orientation, the freshmen will also become familiar with the standard rules of conduct, learn how to electronically cast votes on the House floor and find out which offices they will get on Capitol Hill.
From Capitol News Connection in Washington, I’m Sara Sciammacco for Nashville Public Radio
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