WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) hosted its annual Democracy Awards Ceremony on Thursday, September 18, recognizing exceptional Members of Congress and staff who exemplify outstanding public service, operational excellence, and innovation in their work on Capitol Hill.
In the stately House Ways & Means Committee Hearing Room, the 8th annual Democracy Awards ceremony unfolded as a heartfelt tribute to the congressional offices honored earlier this summer. The event marked more than just a formal recognition—it was a celebration of integrity, dedication, and the enduring spirit of public service.
Throughout the ceremony, emotions ran high. Members of Congress and their staff—regardless of party affiliation—gathered not as political adversaries, but as stewards of democracy. The atmosphere served as a powerful reminder that, even in polarized times, collaboration and mutual respect remain possible within the halls of Congress.
“At a time when public trust in democratic institutions is strained, it’s easy to overlook the day-to-day work of congressional offices,” said Jen Daulby, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF). “At CMF, we’re committed to spotlighting what’s working in Congress and honoring the offices that go above and beyond in service to the American people.”
This year’s Democracy Awards highlighted offices that exemplify the highest standards of constituent service, innovation, and responsiveness. The honorees demonstrated that party lines do not define excellence in governance, but rather a shared commitment to the communities they represent.
Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT-01)Credit: CMF
Best of Constituent Service
- WATCH: Acceptance speech of Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT-01) HERE.
- WATCH: Acceptance speech of Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04) HERE.
Representative Blake Moore reflected on the significance of the award: “More than anything, this recognition is special to me because since my first day in office, I told myself and my team that constituent service will be the heart of everything we do.” His remarks underscored a theme echoed throughout the evening—public service as a calling rooted in empathy and action.
Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA)Credit: CMF
Best of Constituent Correspondence & Outreach
- WATCH: Acceptance speech of Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX-11) HERE.
- WATCH: Acceptance speech of Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) HERE.
Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock also shared a moment of pride and gratitude. “Last fall, I instructed my staff to use every tool at our disposal to communicate critical safety and support information to every affected Georgian,” he said. “This award recognizes my staff’s heroic service to Georgians across our state. In times of great hardship, Georgians can always count on me and my office to provide resources and support.”
Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK-05)Credit: CMF
Best of Innovation & Modernization
- WATCH: Acceptance speech of Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK-05) HERE.
- WINNER: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI)
"This award is not mine alone," said Bice. "It is shared with amazing people who have supported me over the last two plus years." She said that her focus is on constituents and that "they're better served by a Congress that is equipped to work more efficiently."
The full list of the 2025 Democracy Awards winners can be found on the CMF website.
The 2025 Democracy Awards ceremony was more than a celebration—it was a reaffirmation of the values that sustain American democracy. In honoring those who serve with distinction, the event offered a glimpse of Congress at its best: principled, people-focused, and united in purpose.
The Bridge Alliance Education Fund, which funds the Fulcrum, is a co-founder of CMF’s Democracy Awards.
When the United States was founded nearly three centuries later, the Founders carried this worldview with them. In the Constitution, they enshrined compromises that upheld racial hierarchy:
