This fall, the Cato Institute will offer its first‐ever Congressional Fellowship in Constitutional Studies—a nine‐week fellowship for congressional policy staff who are interested in the philosophical roots and practical applications of constitutional law from a libertarian perspective. Open to Capitol Hill policy staff of any party or ideology, lawyers and non‐lawyers alike, the fellowship will consist of weekly receptions and discussions featuring experts from various fields of constitutional law. Discussions will be collegial, nonpartisan, and off the record.
Through readings, lectures, and discussion, participants will have an opportunity to explore core principles of the U.S. Constitution on issues such as the separation of powers, the constitutional implications of surveillance, and First Amendment case law.
Sessions will generally be held at a Capitol Hill–adjacent restaurant for 90 minutes on Thursday evenings from October 7 to December 2 and will begin at 5:30 or 6:30 p.m., depending on the congressional calendar. A final discussion will be held over a reception and dinner on Thursday, December 9. Participants are expected to attend no fewer than seven of the nine sessions.