Christians should be involved in the government just as much as in business and other spheres of society, Washington insider Jon Jones said during a recent visit to Oral Roberts University.
“The values of our nation are built on Christian values and we must protect those values.” said Jones, chief of staff to Congressman Josh Brecheen of eastern Oklahoma’s Second District.
Jones manages two teams, one at a local district office where the staff takes care of constituent services and legislative updates. But most people only know about the other office, located in D.C., where most of Jones’ team members are in their 20s and some are only recent college graduates.
“Schedules are packed from like 7 to 10 p.m., meeting with constituents and covering important details with budget (officials) and Homeland Security,” said Jones, who was invited to campus by ORU’s Young Women for America club.
Being a chief of staff offers a unique opportunity to influence legislation and become a close advisor to a member of Congress, Jones said.
“Its the closest you get to being a member because you get to influence them so much and talk to them a lot about the best course of action,” Jones said. “It’s a slow process but it’s rewarding.”
As an example of how interesting his job can be, Jones remembered helping some Christian missionaries from eastern Oklahoma.
“A group of overseas constituents got arrested unjustly, and we worked to get them released,” Jones said. “We executed justice.”
For students who aspire to work in government, his advice was to find an internship in D.C.
“You’ve got to experience it with your own eyes,” he said.
