In most states and Congressional Districts, there are three or four living former Senators or Representatives, typically including both Democrats and Republicans.

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With the bitter partisan discord in our nation today, it would be a powerful symbol of bipartisan cooperation for a member of Congress to convene a council of these former officeholders.     

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The Senator or Representative would meet periodically with the council for support and insight and they could be directed to engage with constituents on special initiatives - education, health, job creation or other pressing issues. 

 

More than 600 former members of Congress already continue public service after leaving office through programs and initiatives organized by the Association of Former Members of Congress. A council of former Senators or Representatives would build upon this foundation.