What is the rationale for requiring White House tours be scheduled through a member of Congress?
According to https://www.whitehouse.gov/participate/tours-and-events
Public tour requests must be submitted through one's Member of Congress.
My question is… why is that requirement present? Why not just make it so that you can schedule tours through whitehouse.gov itself? Why introduce a middle layer?
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Why is it important to visit the White House?
Inside the visitor center you can learn about the history of the White House, the first families who lived there, the furnishings, the architecture and much more. There's also a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs.Are tours of the White House allowed?
Public tours will initially be available from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, excluding Federal holidays or unless otherwise noted. If your tour is confirmed, please note that you will be assigned a specific time. All White House tours are free of charge.Who should be contacted to schedule a tour of the White House?
Requesting a White House tour Public tour requests must be made through your member of Congress (find your member of Congress and contact information) and submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days prior to your visit.Can the President give White House tours?
Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. You are encouraged to submit your request as early as possible as a limited number of spaces are available. The White House tour is free of charge.Watch: Full Jan. 6 Committee Hearing - Day 7
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