Blueprint for State House Lobbying in an Election Year

As the Presidential election season begins, there's a tendency for attention to be solely focused on the federal level, overshadowing the significance of state and local politics. However, it's crucial for government affairs professionals not to neglect state and local matters amid the excitement of the national scene. Rather than allowing the frenzy of an election year to distract from their goals, they should seek opportunities to capitalize on it to advance their objectives effectively.

Linking National Matters to Drive Progress Regionally and Locally 

Success in a general election year hinges on staying informed about national politics, as they heavily influence policymaking at the state and local levels. Quick adaptation to the dynamic nature of an election year is essential for effective response.

Utilizing Poll Findings to Reassess Your Issue

State politics across the country have shown that sentiments on immigration are strongly influencing legislation, prompting some major cities like Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville to reconsider their "sanctuary city" status. With the influx of migrants and overflowing shelters, many voters are voicing concern. The urgency to address this issue among local lawmakers appears to be fueled by the nature not only of an overflow of shelters across the state, but that of the presidential election and public opinion polling on immigration.

Be Prepared to Address Developing Issues

During election years, there's a heightened urgency in policymaking to respond swiftly to events in the news cycle. Teams must be prepared to react promptly, sometimes with minimal advance notice regarding significant policy changes.

For example, the recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling on IVF caused a significant disruption in the state's healthcare system, leading to a halt in IVF treatments. Surprisingly, the most vocal reactions came from national figures across the political spectrum, rather than local policymakers in Alabama.

Advocates in Massachusetts, which already has strong protections for IVF, understood the overwhelming support of the treatment from all Americans. They were quick to call on state legislators to do more to enact legislation to protect IVF treatments in the state, lobbying harder on bills like HB1602/SB1130 (An Act relative to parentage to promote children’s security) and HB1001 (An Act relative to step therapy and in vitro fertilization insurance coverage). As of March 2024, all the bills remain in committee, with a good chance of passing through. This case underscores the additional urgency in policymaking that arises during an election year marked by its dynamic nature.

Maintain your connections and networks at the state and local levels

Effectively navigating the changing policy and regulatory environment during an election year necessitates a strategic approach to stakeholder management in advocating for your organization's interests.

In election years, take the opportunity to engage with multiple candidates vying for a specific office to convey your organization's mission and objectives. Initiate contact without delay, enabling the establishment of early relationships, fostering trust, and positioning your organization as a valuable resource equipped with expertise and relevant data on pertinent topics.

For example, housing has become a prominent campaign issue state-wide. If your organization specializes in housing, it's advantageous to engage with campaigns addressing this issue by offering your expertise. Providing reports, data, and policy papers can be invaluable for candidates seeking to educate themselves. Initiating contact with a new official by offering assistance rather than making requests can alter the dynamic positively.

Essential stakeholder management strategies during an election year

• Review the policy positions and campaign promises made by a policymaker running for re-election. Identify any promises that remain unfulfilled and monitor closely for their potential introduction. Prepare an action plan in anticipation of the introduction of these policies.

• Consider whether the policymaker seeking re-election relies on specific industry groups or voting blocs for support in their campaign. Monitor the priorities of these groups closely to position yourself effectively for potential policy actions that may align with their interests.

• Assess your organization's relationship with the groups. Identify areas of common ground on policy matters that could arise legislatively. Consider proactive outreach to these groups to minimize risks or enhance your influence. Develop a comprehensive action plan for addressing all potential scenarios.

In election years, government affairs teams face challenges, but with proactive measures and swift responses to emerging policy issues, these challenges can be transformed into opportunities for organizational success in influencing state and local policy.

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