At the 2024 Congressional City Conference (CCC), more than 3,000 local leaders gathered in Washington, DC to learn, network and advocate for local priorities. Hosted by the National League of Cities during its yearlong Centennial Celebration, CCC is a critical opportunity for local elected officials to meet and connect with their peers and federal agency staff to learn about federal funding and programs.
Here are five key moments from this year’s record-breaking Congressional City Conference:
1. President Biden Commits to Local Leaders to “Leave No Community Behind”
In a keynote address to more than 3,000 local leaders, President Biden touted the impactful partnership between his Administration and local leaders. That partnership led to the successful passage of the American Rescue Plan Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the CHIPS and Science Act.
“You do what matters,” President Biden told the audience of local leaders, local government advocates and municipal staff.
“You have been essential partners in delivering historic results for the American people … We trusted you and that trust has been well-placed because you have done a hell of a job.”
2. 1000+ Local Leaders Advocate on Capitol Hill for Local Priorities
In a record-breaking attendance, more than 1,000 local leaders headed to Capitol Hill on the final day of Congressional City Conference to uplift the voice of their communities and to emphasize the importance of local-federal partnership. CCC attendees met with their Members of Congress and NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence Anthony along with Hiram, GA Mayor Frank Moran testified at the Rail Roundtable hosted by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
3. 2500+ Local Leaders Connected to Federal Agencies
Through Deep Dive sessions and Agency Office Hours, Congressional City Conference attendees had an opportunity to connect with more than two dozen federal agencies. From one-on-one meetings to roundtable discussions during the Deep Dive sessions, local leaders were put face-to-face with federal experts and agency staff to discuss federal programs and funding opportunities for their community.
4. Mayors Meet with Education Secretary and Commit to Education Priorities
US Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona moderated a panel discussion centered on the powerful possibilities that arise when city halls and school districts join forces. An extended Q&A session allowed mayors to give voice to their successes and struggles with educational partnerships, programs and performance.
5. 250 Young Leaders Convened at CCC
Congressional City Conference also welcomed more than 200 youth leaders from across the country as part of its youth delegate program. The youth-led program attracts youth council members and young leaders who are serving on their municipal councils and commissions. Youth attendees participated in workshops developed by other youth leaders covering public land use, polarization, how to develop city ordinances and building a strong community.
Congressional City Conference offered a unique opportunity to hear from dynamic and inspiring speakers and connect with federal partners. It is the must-attend event for local leaders looking to amplify and raise the concerns of their communities to federal leaders and Members of Congress.
Missed CCC? Join us for City Summit
Make plans now to join NLC at City Summit in Tampa Bay, Florida for the Centennial celebration finale, and look out for when registration opens for CCC 2025.
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