Progress in Motion 2017 – We’re Ready to Build. We’re Ready to Grow. This MUST Be Our Year

Overview Federal Level Republican President Donald J. Trump took office on January 20, 2017 with Republican majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. President Trump and many of his congressional colleagues campaigned on the issue of transportation and rebuilding America’s infrastructure. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao has been an advocate for rebuilding our nation’s roads and bridges. This is key to ensuring that the President’s bold proposal is passed when the bills are introduced. She is also the spouse of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). Newly elected MN-02 Rep. Jason Lewis (R-MN) serves on the House Transportation Committee and has signaled that he is focused on delivering infrastructure to his district.

Overview (continued) State of Minnesota The 2017 Legislative session began January 3, 2017 with Republican majorities in both the House of Representatives and Senate. Republicans were swept into the majority due in part to promises such as transportation funding and fixing healthcare. But more than that, on a “Get it Done” message to govern effectively. Democratic Governor Mark Dayton is serving his final (biennial) session. 2018 will be an open seat for Governor. In each of the previous several legislative sessions, lawmakers of both parties failed to deliver a transportation funding bill to Governor Dayton

A New and Different Approach The go-to lobbying and “PR” efforts have been moderately successful in the past (see 2013 and 2016 legislative sessions). They have “won” the argument but have failed to drag the bill over the finish line The 2017 effort is focused on the micro level – drag them over the finish line. Our objective is to build around key constituents and to mount a grasstops public affairs campaign aimed at targeted legislators Our messaging is focused on people and how a robust transportation system affects them in their daily life.

A New and Different Approach (continued) KEY MESSAGES: This is a basic function of government Transportation is about businesses and families We’re wasting time and money Get it done, this year. Only you can do it. We not only need existing dedicated funds, but new funds. Get in the habit of making transportation bills occur on a regular basis for families, businesses, local governments. This should be basic.

A New and Different Approach (continued) Weber Johnson Public Affairs Introduction We specialize in fieldwork – informing, motivating and activating transportation constituencies in strategically selected areas. Engaging and Mobilizing transportation stakeholders utilizing our relationships around MN Person-to-person; Grassroots motivation and execution Statewide coalition management and growth.

Thank You!