What Influences a Politician?
With all the money that flows from our federal, state and local governments, it's important to know what may seal the deal with a policy-maker.
One of the easiest and most direct ways to get to know and influence legislators is to help them. You can do so by volunteering to work on a campaign. Although assisting politicians does not ensure that they will always vote your way, it does allow you to spend time with them and their staff. Building and maintaining working relationships is always important.
The following are important questions to keep in mind when lobbying elected officials. The answers to these will influence how a they may respond to an issue.
The Issue:
What are the merits of the issue?
What impact does it have on his/her district?
Does it involve possible job losses?
What is the cost?
What is the issue's impact on the economy or business?
Do issue opponents have more clout than proponents?
What is the executive branch position?
Political Considerations:
Is there an upcoming election in which the legislator faces tough competition?
Is the legislator a lame duck?
Have issue proponents or opponents made campaign contributions?
Does the issue have the commitment of an interest group? In other words, are there many voters tied to this single issue?
Does the issue have support from the president, governor or mayor?
Media:
Have there been many news articles or editorials written on the issue?
Are there opportunities to gain press attention through support or opposition?
Legislative Considerations:
Is the legislator the chairman of the committee that would handle the issue?
What are the legislator's committee assignments?
What trade offs has the politician made with fellow legislators?
What are the positions of others in state or district delegation?
What is the staff advice on the issue?
What is the position of the legislator's political party?
Personal:
Does the legislator have personal experiences and feelings on the issue?
What are the positions of the legislator's family members, friends, and (especially) children?
Does the issue have any connection to the politician's alma mater?
Outside Influences:
Does the legislator have frequent grassroots contact with constituents who could influence him?
What's the general public sentiment about the issue?
Do celebrities or sports figures endorse the issue?
