Welcome to the CBO Director's Blog!
As technology evolves, the Congressional Budget Office is working hard to improve the ways in which we communicate with the Congress and the public. Our analysis has always been of the highest quality, and we'd like to make sure we meet the same high standards in our electronic communications.
We've already added new functions to our websiteto improve our list server and to provide the Congress and citizens with audio files of speeches and presentations along with the materials that go with them. This blog is the latest addition to our communications modernization effort.
What are you likely to read on this blog? First, you will learn more about CBO -- the types of work we do, how we do it, and more about the outstanding analysts we have. For example, when we come out with a new report or important cost estimate, I may write a bit about the analytical substance and also introduce you to the key staff who took the lead in the analysis. Second, CBO's research and cost estimates are often discussed extensively in the media and elsewhere -- and not surprisingly, from time to time misunderstandings or misinterpretations arise about some analysis we have done. In those kinds of situations, I will use the blog to further explain our work and address possible or potential misunderstanding. Finally, when it seems appropriate, I will use the blog to link our work to relevant outside research from academic or other institutions that may shed additional light on the challenging issues the Congress is working to address.
I will write several times each week while Congress is in session -- perhaps less often when it is not. Since this is CBO's first attempt to dip its toes into blogging waters, I will begin slowly. For that reason, at least for now I have decided not to post responses on the blog. I would, though, be delighted to hear from anyone who would like to comment upon something I have written -- and may ask to post a particularly interesting comment if it adds substantively to the discussion on a particular subject. If you wish to write in, please address your comments to: blog@cbo.gov.
I look forward to hearing from you and for any feedback you may have for me on the blog. Here we go!