Forum on the New Obey Autobiography and the Evolution of the American Congress September 10, 2007

Congress is the first branch of American government and many view it as the centerpiece of our democracy. But the American Congress has changed dramatically in recent decades. Understanding those changes and how they affect the country and our ability to govern ourselves is central to building a more effective and more enduring democracy.

Rep. David Obey (D-WI) offers us a unique perspective in understanding how our Congress has changed over the past four decades in a new autobiography, "Raising Hell for Justice - the Washington Battles of a Heartland Progressive." The Center for American Progress's Sept. 10 forum "How Congress Evolves: The Perspective of a House Appropriator," will discuss congressional changes and the Obey book.

Other speakers include: American Enterprise Institute scholar Norm Ornstein, the co-author of the recent critique of Congress titled "Broken Branch", and National Journal reporter Richard Cohen, co-author of the "Almanac of American Politics."

The panel is expected to talk not only about the changes that have taken place but the forces behind those changes and the challenges facing the current Congress in repairing "the broken branch."

The event is free and open to the public. Nearest Metro: McPherson Square or Metro Center.

Official Website: http://www.americanprogress.org/events/2007/09/obeybook.html