NEW CITIZENS’ GUIDE TO INVESTIGATING CONGRESS LAUNCHES

Watchdogging 101 Teaches Citizens to be Online Muckrakers

November 1, 2006

Contact: Gabriela Schneider 202-742-1520 ext 236

WASHINGTON, DC – A new online tutorial teaches citizens all the basics of how to investigate where their Member of Congress gets his or her money from, how much he or she is worth, how they spend their campaign cash, as well as the role lobbyists and industry are playing on Capitol Hill. Created by the Sunlight Foundation, Watchdogging 101: A How-To Guide for Citizen Oversight is a step-by-step guide on how to research some of the most basic questions citizens may have about the inner-workings of Congress. The online tutorial can be found at www.sunlightfoundation.com/watchdogging101. “The internet has allowed for previously obscure information to be presented in a very user-friendly format. But, as with any tools, some basic training is needed to allow someone to fully utilize its power,” said Ellen Miller, executive director of the Sunlight Foundation. “Watchdogging 101 is a user’s guide to the online repositories of information, which will lead to citizens being able to shine more sunlight on Capitol Hill.” Watchdogging 101 shows users how to answer some of the most frequently asked questions, such as “Who is my Member of Congress?” and “Where can I check to see if someone’s a lobbyist?” to the more complex questions, like “How does my representative compare to others in money raised from industry X?” For each question, a separate page walks users through what website hosts the pertinent information, and step-by-step illustrations of how to use that particular site. For example, to the question “How much is my representative worth,” this page shows users exactly how to find that information at www.opensecrets.org. Additionally, users can send in questions on how to find certain types of information about a Member of Congress, lobbyist, or donor, which the Sunlight Foundation will answer on the website. The questions and answers on the site will continue to grow over time, based on user feedback. Founded in January, 2006, the mission of the Sunlight Foundation is to strengthen the relationship between lawmakers and their constituents. Sunlight puts information and tools in citizens’ hands so they can learn more about what Congress and their elected representatives are doing. Our ultimate goal of full transparency by Congress, its Members and staff will help reduce corruption, ensure greater accountability, and foster public trust in this vital institution of democracy. ###