Capitol Hill Lawmakers Reflect on Cherished Holiday Traditions
WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the halls of Capitol Hill emptied for the holiday season, lawmakers from both parties took time to share their favorite traditions that bring warmth and joy during the year-end festivities. Despite the political divides, there was a shared sentiment among House members that the holidays are a special time for family, faith, and fellowship.
Representative Eric Burlison, a Republican from Missouri, described a beloved Christmas scavenger hunt orchestrated by his mother for her grandchildren. “We do Christmas bingo for our White Elephant gifts, and it gets pretty competitive,” Burlison said with a smile. He recounted a humorous tradition where his brother sneaks a household item into the gift pile, leading to surprised and laughter-filled moments when the family unwraps a familiar vase or decoration. This playful spirit underscores the personal connections lawmakers cherish away from the political arena.
Fellow Missouri Republican Byron Donalds shared his family’s festive menu, highlighting the blend of cultural flavors that mark their Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. “Christmas Eve is Spanish bean soup and Cuban sandwiches,” Donalds said. The family also enjoys watching basketball and football by a cozy fire on Christmas night, blending sport and relaxation into their holiday.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana emphasized the importance of family gatherings centered around food and gift exchanges. His favorite tradition is opening presents with his children, followed by a meal featuring Cajun-fried turkey — a nod to his Louisiana roots. Scalise’s celebration reflects the regional culinary heritage that many Americans embrace during the holidays.
On the Democratic side, Representative Henry Cuellar of Texas highlighted the spiritual dimension of the season. “The holidays always begin with attending Christmas Mass and thanking God for the miracle of the birth of Christ,” Cuellar said. He emphasized that the rest of the season is devoted to home-cooked meals and traditions that unite his family. His reflection resonates with many who find solace and meaning in faith during the holidays, as supported by reports from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Representative Debbie Dingell of Michigan shared how she extends the holiday spirit beyond family to include friends and neighbors. Her traditions include baking and sharing Christmas cookies, as well as hosting holiday dinners with her college roommates and poker group. Dingell’s approach showcases the diverse ways people create chosen families and communities during the season.
The holiday season on Capitol Hill also coincides with the display of the annual Capitol Christmas tree, a symbol of unity and celebration. The 2025 tree, prominently placed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, serves as a backdrop for many lawmakers’ reflections on the year and hopes for the future. Information about the Capitol Christmas tree program can be found through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the selection and delivery of the tree each year.
These personal stories from lawmakers provide a glimpse into the human side of those who often face intense political pressures. Their shared traditions — from festive meals and gift games to religious observances and community gatherings — remind us that the holidays remain a time for connection and gratitude across the nation.
As the country observes the season, the USA.gov holiday page offers resources and information on various cultural and religious observances, underscoring the rich tapestry of American holiday celebrations.
In a year marked by challenges and change, the simple joys of family, faith, and festive traditions continue to offer comfort and hope to lawmakers and citizens alike.
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