Mike,
On lodging, get it set now....that's prime time for tourists in DC. I would also suggest staying in town...check out the Jury's Doyle hotels. The one on Dupont Circle serves a solid pint of Guinness. On meals, shoot me a line a couple of weeks before you get here and I'll let you in on what's hot. At the moment, that would be Komi (a bunch of courses with a wine attuned to each), Granville Moore's (over 50 belgian beers plus frites) and Five Guys Burgers for a quick, excellent chow. I would reserve a day or two for the Mall sites. Make sure to get to the FDR memorial and the Lincoln Memorial is best at sunrise and sunset. Also, if you are bringing a chica I would take a look at the Textile Museum. Again, connect with me right before you come and I will let you know the latest and greatest. There are alot of cultural events (Screen on the Green, Shakespeare at the Folger's, drink specials at The Derby) that are fleeting and that you won't have any way to know about unless you talk to a local. You should also stop in at Ben's Chili Bowl to see a real, old school DC institution. You have an even chance of running into the Mayor, Bill Cosby, et cetera there.
Also, don't forget that you can literally just walk into the Rayburn and Cannon office buildings where the Congress does (or does not do) it's work. You can get a glimpse of the sausage factory involved in make law. Walk into your Congressman's office to say hey and you will learn alot about what kind of Rep. you have. Cheers and don't hesitate to email me with any questions you may have.
bboyle
P.S. This city is not remotely as dangerous as it is made out to be....so unless you are hanging out with the residual crackheads you shouldn't have any problems.