I kind of like policy wonks. These are the cerebral people who usually work behind the scenes, exploring and explaining public policy problems, coming up with research, reports and solutions, and trying to make the world a better place.
I make a distinction between “pure” policy wonks and the elected officials who are often their bosses. Certainly, many politicians are also policy wonks, but their perspectives are influenced by partisan interests and the need to get re-elected, raise money, increase their name ID, etc. Their view of public policy is not always objective.
Certainly, all policy wonks face external pressures. It’s impossible to get completely away from politics. But many policy practitioners are somewhat insulated and can mostly focus on what makes good public policy.
Some policy wonks are also politically ambitious, and they end up running for office. But many of the best wonks are happy to stay in the policy shop, at least a little distance from the rough and tumble of partisan politics…
View Article