Press corps tops lawmakers in charity softball rematch
The Bad News Babes, a team of Capitol Hill journalists, defeated the all-female congressional squad 22-16 in the annual Congressional Women's Softball Game on Wednesday night. The event raised more than $880,000 for breast cancer charity, with lawmakers returning to Washington despite a recess and campaign season. A late grand slam by Rep. Sharice Davids narrowed the gap but could not overcome the press team's lead, which has now won 11 of the last 16 matchups.
The game's bipartisan character was evident as Democratic and Republican lawmakers shared a roster, with Rep. Kathy Castor handling pitching duties and Sen. Shelley Moore Capito serving as the only Senate participant. Organizers noted the event has generated over $5.8 million for the Young Survival Coalition since its 2009 inception, with this year's proceeds exceeding $880,000.
The matchup relocated to Audi Field last year after years at a local elementary school and recreation center. Last year's contest ended early due to lightning, snapping the press team's two-year winning streak. This year's high-scoring affair featured a disputed hit from Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds, ruled a ground-rule double, and a late grand slam from Rep. Sharice Davids that narrowed but couldn't erase the deficit.
This annual charity game demonstrates how bipartisan traditions can persist even amid polarized politics, offering lawmakers and journalists a shared cause beyond policy battles. The substantial fundraising for young adults with breast cancer may provide meaningful support for affected communities. The event's growing visibility at Audi Field could also reinforce the value of informal cross-institutional relationships, potentially fostering goodwill that carries into professional interactions. However, its impact remains largely symbolic, as the game's charitable and social benefits, while real, are unlikely to shift broader political dynamics.