The Washingtonian 500 is now live
Compiling the list of the city's top policy influencers is a 7-month project.
After hundreds of emails, calls, text messages, edits, cuts, re-edits, additions, photos, questions, follow-up questions, LinkedIn & LexisNexis searches and more emails, Washingtonian Magazine’s 2024 list of the top 500 policy influencers is now LIVE online.
Print issues dropped last week, allowing, for once, paper to move faster than digital.
As the lead writer on the project, here are some fast answers to questions I receive for guidance on the process.
Q: Hey, why did so-and-so drop off the list?
A: Did they resubmit a new policy accomplishment over the last calendar year? While many nominees carry over year-to-year, it’s not guaranteed. Every name is re-vetted annually and some names are dropped to make way for more worthy additions. If there isn’t a readily available public document online outlining an accomplishment, that may cause X to be cut.
Q: When are you taking nominees for next year’s list?
A: Ah, you’ve seen the list and red envy has filled your veins. You belong on this list — or know someone who does! No fear. The process usually begins in the fall, around late September or early October. Nominations formally open in mid-October and run through December. So yeah, you can pitch someone now, but the smarter play is to wait for the fall window to be sure your submission isn’t missed in emails long forgotten. Editors and writers are busy with other projects until then.
Q: What’s the key to cementing a place on the list?
A: Simply, it’s exemplifying specific influence on a policy. Restating a nominee’s biography is not enough. Touting a title or a meeting with POTUS is usually insufficient. Showing precise influence on the White House, a Cabinet agency, a Senate committee, legislation signed into law, etc… is the ultimate driver. For a detailed explanation of the vetting process, click HERE.
Q: Hey, David, how can I get a hard copy?
A: To purchase a hard copy, email: SSimmons@washingtonian.com.
