Now that Congress is back in session the final committee rosters are finally beginning to take shape. With large numbers of new members, many of which campaigned to radically change how Washington works, an interesting dynamic to watch is how these folks will fit into the permanent and often change-resistant legislative structure. Traditionally, plum committee assignments are given to those members who “earn” them through working on behalf of their party’s interests in ways such as fundraising and voting consistently with the leadership.

This norm has historically been especially strong on the Senate side where members vigorously protect their prerogatives, especially when confronted with ambitious newcomers.  In the Senate “club” it is often advised that freshmen walk softly and learn how to do the job before they set out to upset the apple cart.