Politico, April 23, 2014.

Excerpt:

I just published a book called “The Curmudgeon’s Guide to Getting Ahead” for people making the transition from college to the real world. It consists of tips that I originally wrote for the interns and research assistants at the American Enterprise Institute, where I work. But let’s face it: Some of my advice doesn’t seem to apply if you’re in the political part of Washington.

I’m thinking especially of tip No. 1, “Don’t suck up.” How can I say that with a straight face to someone working on the Hill? There’s a reason Mark Leibovich called Washington “Suck-Up City” in This Town. Sucking up is part of a politician’s job description. Some people will tell you that sucking up and networking are not just the best ways to get ahead in This Town, but the only ways.

But if you’re a newcomer to Capitol Hill, be careful.

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