We're working towards a more inclusive America where public policy is for all people
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As a community of independently-minded policy leaders of today and tomorrow, we're building consensus where it may seem impossible and daring to forge actionable solutions.

The next chapter in American history will be a pivotal moment where the importance of finding common ground and fostering the productive dialogue needed to move the country forward especially in the areas of energy and national security cannot be overstated. Rainey Center looks forward to continuing to create opportunities for productive dialogue to take place.
Together we can create a more perfect union.
Joseph Rainey Center for Public Policy is a 501(c)(3) public policy research organization and leadership community founded on the values of equality, freedom, and a more perfect union. Named for Congressman Joseph Rainey - borne enslaved and the first Black American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives - Rainey Center fosters dialogue on actionable solutions to American's challenges while amplifying the voices of women, minorities, and mavericks in public policymaking.

Rainey Center's research and leadership development programs foster dialogue that generates recommendations to address our nation's most pressing public policy issues. Our work supports today's leaders while preparing the next generation of leaders to work across political divides and towards a brighter future that reflects the diversity of the American people.

We invite individuals across the ideological spectrum to join us in seeking mutual understanding and pursuing actionable solutions to America's greatest policy challenges.
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Our strategy is to ensure that everyone's voice is heard to foster unique perspectives that change the conversation.
We don't accept the status quo. We take risks. We're pulling up our seats at policymaking tables to create long-lasting impact on America's most pressing issues.
Energy
Clean energy policies with economic and environmental sustainability in mind
Free Elections
Advancing democratic values through peaceful pluralism and respect for diversity.
Healthcare
Guidance for managing all aspects of healthcare to improve access, delivery and coverage.
Innovation
Embracing the disruption of future industries through transformative ideas.
National Security
Policies to help keep our nation safe, prosperous and unified as one people.

The Latest

Counties and Representation in the Wyoming Legislature
April 5, 2024
Across the United States, there is growing interest in structural reform to make our electoral system more responsive and less polarizing. But like so many other issues, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In each of the fifty states, unique local history, culture, geography, and preferences must be taken into account. In this report from the Rainey Center, Andy Craig takes a closer look at one state in particular: Wyoming.
Policy Brief: Ensuring Candidate Safety: Examining the Need for Legislation to Protect Elected Officials and Campaign Workers
February 1, 2024
Recently, discussions about election issues have focused on topics such as electoral fairness, security, and accountability of elected officials. However, a crucial aspect that is often overlooked is the physical safety of candidates, elected officials, and the campaign workers who support them.
The Role of Real Estate in Economic Opportunity for the African American Population
May 5, 2023
For the majority of Americans, their most valuable asset is their primary residence. But Black Americans have historically been at a disadvantage, given restrictions on land inheritance, redlining, and discrimination in lending practices. Overcoming these historical disadvantages and applying lessons from modern successes to a broader audience is challenging but necessary
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Counties and Representation in the Wyoming Legislature
April 5, 2024
Across the United States, there is growing interest in structural reform to make our electoral system more responsive and less polarizing. But like so many other issues, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In each of the fifty states, unique local history, culture, geography, and preferences must be taken into account. In this report from the Rainey Center, Andy Craig takes a closer look at one state in particular: Wyoming.
Policy Brief: Ensuring Candidate Safety: Examining the Need for Legislation to Protect Elected Officials and Campaign Workers
February 1, 2024
Recently, discussions about election issues have focused on topics such as electoral fairness, security, and accountability of elected officials. However, a crucial aspect that is often overlooked is the physical safety of candidates, elected officials, and the campaign workers who support them.
Free Speech on the Ballot: The Case for Fusion
November 14, 2023
In the 19th century and continuing well into the 20th, the United States saw a proliferation of political parties, many operating within a single state or region, and often achieving a substantial degree of electoral success. The most successful of these coalesced to form what is now the Republican Party.
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