English: Much policy research is proposed, designed and funded to inform policy debates. Yet, given the value-laden nature of policy making and the limitations of social science in providing definitive answers devoid of caveats, some question the ability of research to affect policy making at all. Examining this question, this article compiles commentary from 14 individuals convened to discuss the research-to-policy connection as it actually occurs in US policy making. These ‘research brokers’ hold different professional roles (for example, congressional staffers, advocates), but all work at the intersection of research and policy on a daily basis, allowing them to provide first-hand accounts of research utilisation.