Citizen's Handbook to Influencing Elected Officials: Citizen Advocacy in State Legislatures and Con

Practical guidance how to prepare for and meet with elected officials and staff, how to write effective letters and emails to elected officials, strategies for influencing legislators face-to-face, best practices for communicating with Congress and state legislatures, and how to write persuasive "letters to the editor".
This book is one part research studies, one part interviews and focus groups, and one part experience. It uses available research on Congress and its decision making. Dozens of elected officials, including members of Congress, and their staff agreed to off-the-record interviews and discussed the factors that contribute to their decision-making process.
Strategies for Influencing Legislators Face-to-Face
Best Practices for Communicating with Congress and State Legislatures
Practical Guidance How to Prepare for and Meet with Elected Officials
How to Write Effective Letters and Email to Members of Congress
How to Write Persuasive Letters to the Editor that Get Published
Summary Table of Contents





Part I. How Government Really Works


Ch. 1. How Congressional Offices Work


Ch. 2. Congressional Culture


Ch. 3. How Legislators Make Decisions


Ch. 4. People Who Can (and Can't) Influence Legislators and How They Do It





Part II. How to Influence a Legislator


Ch. 5. Strategies for Influencing Legislators


Ch. 6. Face-to-Face Meetings


Ch. 7. Communications





Appendices


A. The Advocate's Pledge


B. US Constitution and Amendments


C. Declaration of Independence


D. Information about Congress and Washington, DC Index
Complete Table of Contents online at www.CitizensHandbook.com