How 'YouTube in Session' connects creators and policymakers in Washington, D.C.
Dec 04, 2025 [[read-time]] minute read
In today's world, finding common ground is more important than ever. That’s the spirit of YouTube in Session, a bipartisan event series, hosted in front of a live audience, that fosters authentic discussions between YouTube creators and policymakers.
As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at some of the inspiring discussions and diverse voices that made YouTube in Session so special thus far:
“Whether it is social media platforms, the fax machine, radio programs, or podcasts - as a representative in Congress - these avenues allow for us to have dialogue with our constituents.”
The first installment featured Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), who is the sixth-longest serving senator in U.S. history, in conversation with Emily Jashinsky, host of After Party with Emily Jashinsky. The two chatted about news of the day as well as the Senator's career, journalism, and how policymakers are using technology and new media to engage with their constituents.
The second installment featured Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), the chair of the Senate Democrats’ Strategic Communications Committee, alongside Doctor Mike, a board-certified family physician whose YouTube content educates the public on health. They had a lively discussion about the magic of building communities online. The Senator encouraged attendees, and viewers, to use platforms like YouTube to spread positive information, and inspire kindness and hope.
The latest installment featured Sean Parnell, Assistant to the Secretary of War and former United States Army Captain, and Shawn Ryan, a top podcaster and former Navy SEAL for a heartfelt tribute to America’s men and women in uniform. The conversation was deeply personal, moving beyond policy to the human realities of transitioning to civilian life.
Weren’t able to attend?
You can watch the full episodes of all three conversations here.
In 2026, we will be continuing this work. As part of America’s 250th birthday next year, we’ll be hosting several special events – including a Presidents’ Day YouTube in Session with C-SPAN, and a celebration of American ingenuity around the Artemis II launch. We hope you’ll join us.
As YouTube in Session has clearly proven over the last few months, the range of voices across the ideological spectrum is what makes both YouTube and Washington, D.C. so unique. If you’re a creator interested in participating in a future YouTube in Session, please send us an email at YouTube-civics@google.com.