Center for Rural Affairs

It’s election year and the perfect time to talk to candidates about critical rural issues. Your senator or representative is most likely to make a commitment to you when seeking your vote. So seize the opportunity. Commitments are harder to get after the election.

There are a few simple steps you can take. None requires detailed policy knowledge or expertise.

First, tell them who you are – a voter in their district and current or potential constituent. If you are an elected official, community developer, community volunteer, or business or farm owner – tell them. That gives you credibility.

Ask for a commitment. If you want Congress to fund rural development, support conservation programs, or cap payments to mega farms, first tell them what you want. But don’t stop there. Ask them, “Will you promise to support funding for rural development?” or whatever else you request.

Finally, establish a personal relationship and follow-up. Stay after the formal meeting to shake their hand, thank them for coming, and give them your business card or your name and address scribbled on a scrap of paper. Ask who on their staff you should contact when the issue comes up in the future. When it does, get back to that person, and, if you got a commitment, tell them.

You can make a difference. It takes a little effort, but you can do it. Questions or comments? Contact me, Chuck Hassebrook, at 402.687.2100 or chuckh@cfra.org.