The Washington Post Company has announced the beta launch of WhoRunsGov.com, a Web site offering a unique look at the world of Washington through its key players and personalities. The site features concise profiles of influential political officials who shape government policy, including members of the new presidential administration, Pentagon officials, lawmakers, senior congressional aides and committee staff. In later phases, the site will be expanded to include state officials and experts at think tanks and interest groups.
The first several hundred profiles are being crafted by a newly created editorial team at the Washington Post Company, as well as a group of experienced outside contributors. The site will also feature a daily news blog called The Plum Line focusing on the personal role of Washington’s most powerful players in the policy-making process.
Each profile provides in-depth information on an official’s policy experience, involvement in government decision-making, major policy positions, key associates, political affiliations, voting records, campaign and personal finance information, plus relevant news articles from around the Web. The goal is to provide policy biographies of all major government decision-makers across the Executive and Legislative branches and independent agencies. Each profile will highlight an official’s top policy concerns, from health care to financial services to national security.
“This is the first phase of a new venture to create a uniquely collaborative and rich information resource that demystifies the individuals behind Washington’s policy-making process,” said Rachel Van Dongen, editor of WhoRunsGov.com. “The site gives political, business and opinion leaders, as well as students, educators and engaged citizens, a destination for crucial, real-time information on Washington’s key players. And it will be a free resource for all.