Constituent letters Mack Mariani 1

Constituent letters Writing a Good Constituent Letter: The Groundwork 1. Note the style and tone (use straightforward language) 2. Observe the format (use established formats) 3. Look closely at the first and last sentences 4. Use the standard salutation 5. Use the correct job title (how does the legislator want to be identified?) Standard Introductory Sentence: “Thank you for contacting my office regarding [issue x]. I appreciate having the benefit of your views on this issue.” 2

Constituent letters Writing a Good Constituent Letter: Research 1. First, talk it over (what approach does the Chief of Staff want to take?) 2. Research the mail archives (look at previous letters on the topic) 3. Research your legislator’s record 4. Research past correspondence with that individual 5. Use the correct job title 3

Constituent letters Writing a Good Constituent Letter: Content 1. Try to find common ground (reach out of the constituent) 2. Emphasize the legislators actions 3. Take or claim credit 4. Attempt to build credibility 5. Emphasize the legislators attention to constituents 4

Constituent letters Writing a Good Constituent Letter: Quality Control 1. Spellcheck, spellcheck, spellcheck. 2. Edit carefully. 3. Have someone else edit the letter. 4. Resist the urge to rebuke constituents. 5. Know when to leave well enough alone. 6. Don’t freelance (check everything with the Chief of Staff or legislator). 5