Preparing for New Legislators

The arrival of new legislators presents both opportunities and challenges for lobbyists. Whether they are seasoned policymakers or fresh faces, the transition period is critical for establishing relationships and influencing policy discussions. As a lobbyist or advocate, your goal is to ensure your organization or clients remain part of the legislative conversation. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for new legislators effectively:

1. Research and Understand Their Background

New legislators bring diverse perspectives based on their personal, professional, and political backgrounds. Understanding who they are, their values, and the key issues that motivated them to run for office is crucial. Some steps to take include:

• Review their campaign platform: What issues did they champion during their campaign? Are these issues aligned with your advocacy efforts?

• Understand their district: Learn about the demographics, economic landscape, and pressing issues in their district. This knowledge allows you to connect your policy priorities to the needs of their constituency.

• Explore their professional background: Previous jobs, public service roles, or industry experience can provide insight into their potential focus as a legislator.

2. Update and Customize Your Messaging

Once you’ve done your research, it's essential to tailor your advocacy message for new legislators. Consider:

• Tailored briefing materials: Create concise, personalized briefing documents for each new legislator. Highlight the issues you care about, but frame them in a way that resonates with their values and campaign promises.

• Identify common ground: Establishing early connections based on shared priorities is critical for building trust. Even if the legislator doesn’t initially align with your position, focus on areas where you can collaborate.

• Simplify complex issues: New legislators often face a steep learning curve, especially if they are new to policy-making. Simplify technical issues, break down complex legislation, and provide data to support your case.

3. Establish Relationships Early

In the early days of a legislator’s term, building a strong, professional relationship is key. To stand out from the many lobbyists vying for their attention, you need a proactive approach.

• Introduce yourself promptly: Reach out with a congratulatory message on their election. Express your interest in supporting them on issues of mutual concern.

• Schedule a meeting: Offer to meet with the new legislator or their staff. The goal is to become a trusted resource by offering insights, policy expertise, and background information. 

• Get to know their staff: Legislative staff are gatekeepers and often have significant influence over their boss's schedule and policy focus. Building a rapport with staff members is equally important as developing a relationship with the legislator. InstaTrac has staff directories that are updated monthly, giving you all the direct contacts you need. 

4. Anticipate the Learning Curve

New legislators often take time to understand how the legislative process works, build their teams, and navigate their roles. Recognizing this, it’s important to:

• Be patient but persistent: Don’t expect immediate results. Follow up with polite persistence to reinforce your messages and keep the conversation going.

• Offer training and resources: If applicable, provide resources that help new legislators get up to speed on specific policy areas. This might include white papers, reports, or invitations to attend educational briefings and workshops.

• Respect their priorities: Early in their term, legislators are likely inundated with requests. Recognize that your issue may not be at the top of their list and adjust your approach accordingly.

5. Monitor Committee Assignments and Leadership Positions

Committee assignments and leadership roles will shape a legislator’s focus. Monitor these developments closely:

• Track relevant committee assignments: While rookie legislators aren’t often given leadership positions, they are often assigned to committees as members. If a legislator is assigned to a committee related to your issues, it’s time to intensify engagement. Understanding how these roles affect their priorities can help you align your messaging with the issues they will likely emphasize.

• Identify rising stars: Pay attention to new legislators who are gaining influence or are being tapped for leadership roles. These individuals could play a significant role in shaping policy in the future, making early relationship-building essential.

6. Leverage Coalitions and Grassroots Support

New legislators often respond to public sentiment and grassroots pressure as they are more connected to people rather than established firms. If your issues align with the interests of their constituents, it can strengthen your case.

• Mobilize grassroots advocacy: Encourage stakeholders, especially those in the legislator’s district, to engage directly with the new officeholder. Letters, calls, and meetings with constituents can amplify your message.

• Build or join coalitions: Working within a coalition of organizations that share similar goals can provide added weight to your advocacy efforts. Legislators are more likely to respond to issues backed by multiple voices.

7. Track and Adjust as Needed

Legislators evolve over time, adapting to new political environments, learning more about policy, and responding to constituent needs. Regularly assess how your relationship is progressing and be prepared to adjust your approach:

• Monitor their votes and public statements: Keep an eye on how the new legislator votes on key issues or the positions they take in public statements. This can help you refine your messaging and advocacy efforts. InstaTrac keeps a log of all votes, including descriptions for your convenience. 

• Adapt to shifts in focus: New legislators may shift their focus as they become more familiar with the legislative landscape. Stay flexible and ready to pivot your approach if their priorities change.

There are 2 months left until the General Election on Nov. 5, 2024. We’ve put together profiles of the candidates to give you a start on your planning. 

New legislators bring new dynamics to the policy-making process. By being proactive, tailoring your approach, and building early relationships, you can position yourself as a valuable resource. The key to success is patience, persistence, and adaptability—qualities that will help you navigate the transition and advocate effectively for your issues.