All politics is local

Coined by the 47th Speaker of the U.S. House, Tip O’Neill, the saying, “All politics is local,” is a well-known phrase in U.S. politics.

Speaker O’Neill became politically active at the age of 15, campaigning for Al Smith’s 1928 presidential bid. Four years later, he worked on behalf of then-candidate Franklin D. Roosevelt — who went on to become the 32nd U.S. president. As a senior at Boston College, O’Neill ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the Cambridge City Council. This race, his first of many, marked his only electoral defeat. However, the campaign taught him a valuable lesson that later became a well-known quote and this column’s title.

Tasked with a short presentation highlighting advocacy tips and best practices while preparing for the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) District Advisory Council, or DAC Day, in January, this phrase came to mind. With Iowa’s lawmakers settling into the new legislative session and Washington, D.C., back open for business following the shutdown, there is no better

time to consider five simple tips for becoming a better local advocate.

1. Show Up.

Arguably the most important, yet always the most difficult. Take advantage of the opportunities to meet your senators or representatives. Iowa’s lawmakers — both state and federal — are very accessible through office hours, town hall meetings and other opportunities. If you are unable to meet face-to-face with your member, spend time with their staff. Staff are the eyes and ears of the office and serve as a vital conduit.

2. Share a Story.

If you schedule a meeting, remember that legislators love a good story — a personal connection to an issue can make all the difference. Beforehand, think about what you want to communicate, and why you want to talk about the issue.

3. Know Your Issue.

Do you know the issue background, the underlying legislation, or funding mechanism tied to your concern? Answering these simple questions will help make you a reliable source. Whether you read the news or search the internet, do your homework. This is also where ISA staff can help provide insight and perspective.

4. Talk About It.

Exercising respectful political discourse, relax and talk about it. State the problem and recommend a solution. Talk about it as if you are chatting with a family member or an old friend. Legislators are people just like you and me.

5. Think/Act Locally.

While Washington, D.C., is often considered the political hotbed, opportunities exist to raise awareness and prompt change closer to home. Many city council or county supervisor seats go unchallenged year after year. Often, a grassroots movement is sparked by a local issue before getting attention on the national stage.

As you can see, all politics is local. I encourage you to join ISA in Des Moines and Washington, D.C., this year.

Michael Dolch

Director of Public Affairs, Iowa Soybean Association MDolch@iasoybeans.com