In the News

U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond, D-New Orleans, earned a shout-out from a Republican congressman when Roll Call asked 17 House freshmen to identify their closest colleagues from across the aisle. The kudos came from Rep. Paul Mitchell of Michigan.

"I did a trip with him. And I think the world of him," Mitchell said. He and Richmond joined some other members of Congress on a visit this year to NATO allies in Italy and Portugal. They both are members of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth.

Roll Call was following up on the civility pledge that House freshmen signed in January, promising to maintain collegiality and honor even when they vehemently disagree on law and policy. The pledge was drafted by Louisiana's 4th District congressman, Mike Johnson, R-Benton.

Johnson's closest Democratic colleague? He cited Pramila Jayapal of Washington and Jamie Raskin of Maryland, both of whom serve with him on the Judiciary Committee.