Congressman Mike Thompson, Democrat, was elected in 1998 to represent California’s First Congressional District, which includes part of Sonoma County, and all of Napa, Lake, Mendocino, Humboldt and Del Norte counties. Prior to serving in Congress, Rep. Thompson represented California’s Second District in the State Senate. He visited the Sun offices on Monday.
Q1: You’ve worked with Republican majorities and Republican presidents. What’s it like now with a Democratic Congress and president?
A1: To call it a Democratic Senate is a bit of a stretch. There’s a very narrow window to get things done. The house is not a left-leaning institution. There are 53 Blue Dog Democrats – very conservative Democrats. I can introduce you to Democrats that are more Republican than any Republican you know. Nancy Pelosi may be a liberal, but she is the speaker of the house, not San Francisco. By the time policy comes to the floor, it’s pretty conservative.
Q2: What kind of reputation does California have in Congress. Do members think we’re kooky?
A2: When I was a freshman and walked out onto the floor, a congressman from Florida came up and asked me, “Are you really from the district where the woman lives in a tree?” California has a personality.
Q3: When did you realize, “We’re not in California any more?”
A3: When I was first elected I was in Washington, at a meet-and-greet, when it really hit me. Each candidate had a minute or two to describe themselves. Right before my turn came there was a senator from Illinois who was a gospel singer. He said, “I’m pro-gun, pro-life and proud to be a democrat.” That was it. We’re not in California anymore.
Q4: As an incoming congressman – most freshman must have them – what was your most embarrassing moment?
A4: After we were sworn in, there was a dinner for new members. I had a plum seating assignment. During dinner, I asked the guy next to me “Who are you, what do you do?” He looked at me and said, “I’m the chairman of the appropriations committee!” (bangs table for emphasis.) Of course he felt he should have been recognized. He’s a friend of mine now, but it took quite a few bottles of merlot to smooth it over.
Q5: When you’re in DC and you need a California fix, what do you do?
A5: I work too hard to be homesick. And I come home every weekend. It charges up your batteries.
Q6: When was the last time you were strong-armed by the White House?
A6: It was a China trade bill under Clinton. His guy called me to the White House, and told the president, “Thompson wants three things.” One of them was getting a zip code for American Canyon, something I had been working on for years. The president said, “Who the hell does zip codes? Do I know him?” That’s the hardest I’ve been lobbied. But American Canyon did get a zip code out of it.
Q7: Has being president always been part of the plan?
A7: It’s never been my dream. Congress is a seniority institution. The standard rule is: Tenure trumps. The longer you serve … the more clout you have. So it’s a better position to help our district. I’m content with that.
Q8: With all the events and meetings you attend, how do you pick your neckties?
A8: Whatever’s in the closet. Today my wife told me to wear red.
Q9: You’re probably too diplomatic to tell us if you prefer Napa or Sonoma wines?
A9: Yes I am. Or do you mean, what would be my second choice after Bonterra, a wine made with the grapes I grow?
Q10: Will you pose for a picture, holding a copy of the Sun?
A10: Sure. There’s a time for policy and a time for pandering.
