I often hear from Tennessee teachers and the students who are learning from them. The success of our nation will depend on the responsibility and citizenship of our young Americans. I have dedicated this section of my web site to answering the questions students most often ask me about my job, American government and the issues Congress addresses every day. 

Questions Students Ask

What is it like to be a Congressman?

My work as a Congressman is very rewarding. It is my only job, besides being a husband and father, and I look forward to going to work every day.  One of the things that is difficult about this job is that it is hard be away from the great state of Tennessee so much. And when I am not voting, or working on one of my committees, I try to spend as much time as possible back home with my family and the great folks of East Tennessee.

My family and I stay involved in the YMCA, Students Taking A Right Stand (S.T.A.R.S.), the Bethel Bible Village and other local organizations. I have two children, Weston and Coty, who play sports and are very active in our church, Red Bank Baptist.

Who is Congressman Wamp's political role model?

Teddy Roosevelt. He loved life and tried to live it abundantly. He read, listened, laughed, and spoke with passion. He would go out and conquer the world and then retreat to Sagamore Hill with his family. He was the model public figure who maintained balance in his life.

Why did Representative Wamp get involved in politics?  Why does he stay involved?

I deeply believe being a Member of Congress is a noble profession – that one person can really make a difference.  British Parliamentarian, William Wilberforce showed us 200 years ago through perseverance, love and dedication that one person can cause a nation to change for the better.  His two main objectives while in office were to bring about a more civil society in Britain and end slavery.  When he offered his first bill to abolish slavery in England, it received only one vote.  A generation later; however, William Wilberforce was still a member of the Parliament when slavery was officially ended and the Reformation of Manners was approved.  

What is Congressman Wamp's personal political passion?

Restoring civility, respect, and community with the American political arena while bringing about accountability and efficiency in the federal government.  

Who is Congressman Wamp’s favorite President?

My favorite President of all time is Abraham Lincoln because he was a spiritual man who followed the will of God and not the will of his fellow man. His
contributions literally saved the Republic. Teddy Roosevelt and Ronald
Reagan are two other favorites.

Over a 140-year period these three leaders were the stewards of a great
Republican leadership which freed the slaves, created our national parks
and ended Communism, as we know it.

Could I become a Member of Congress?

There is no set formula for becoming a Member of Congress. There are currently real estate agents, doctors, lawyers, farmers, ranchers, and even a full-time winemaker serving in Congress.

My only advice to young folks is to use whatever talents God has given you to the best of your ability. Work and study hard, continue to be a leader among your peers and above all commit yourself in service to others. You must also choose a straight path to walk. Too many promising careers have been tarnished or seriously cut short due to terrible lapses in judgment.

What are Congressman Wamp's hobbies and interests?

I love history and read at least one biography of a famous person every year.  Playing basketball, golf, and baseball are three of my favorite activities.  I am also an avid runner.  As they have grown up, I have enjoyed coaching each of my children's YMCA basketball teams.  And, every week I teach the young adult Sunday School at Red Bank Baptist Church.  

What is Congressman Wamp's favorite food?

My favorite food is ice cream. 

Web Sites for Students

You can learn how our government works, how our laws are made and have access to important historical documents, like the Constitution, by visiting Ben’s Guide to U.S. Government.  Another fun place to visit is the President’s home, the White House. The White House Site for Kids has fun facts, pictures and you can even tour the White House with the "first pets!" 

One of the greatest museums in the world is located in Washington, D.C. The Smithsonian offers exhibits on everything from American History to great works of art and airplanes. The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian but has its own web page full of great pictures and descriptions of animals from all over the world. 

See the people who make space travel possible in our country at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Kids aged 5 to 14 can learn about NASA's activities and science, using interactive tools. Older kids may want to check out Liftoff to Space Exploration.

Other good government Web sites for students can be found at http://bensguide.gpo.gov/subject.html.  

Of course, if you would like to learn more about the great state of Tennessee, you can visit the state web site and Tennessee History for Kids.