Congress in session is Congress on public exhibition, whilst Congress in its committee rooms is Congress at work

Congress in session is Congress on public exhibition, whilst Congress in its committee rooms is Congress at work

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was a firm believer in the importance of transparency and efficiency in government. His famous quote, “Congress in session is Congress on public exhibition, whilst Congress in its committee rooms is Congress at work,” perfectly encapsulates his views on the inner workings of the legislative branch.

Wilson understood that the public sessions of Congress, where debates and votes are held, are often more about political posturing and grandstanding than actual policymaking. These sessions are where lawmakers have the opportunity to showcase their positions to their constituents and the media. However, Wilson believed that the real work of Congress happens behind closed doors, in the committee rooms where bills are drafted, debated, and amended.