How To Write a Political Letter

One great thing you can do to influence the outcome of this budget-cutting special session is writing to your legislators. Remember, they represent you, so your opinion counts. Here is how to do it in a few easy steps.

1) Find your legislators

• Enter your address into this tool to find out who is representing you.

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/Default.aspx

• There will be a link to each official with an email address, a district office, and an Olympia office.

2) State your case

• Keep it short, simple, and personal. Explain both why you feel cutting education funding is detrimental to everyone, and how it will affect you as an individual. Mention that you are a student, and talk about what the cuts will mean to your school. Here is a template to start with, but remember to make it as personal as you can. Tell your story.

Dear Representative __________, I am a student at ____________, and I am deeply concerned about the proposed budget cuts to education. Budget cuts would really hurt my school in that ____________, and the quality of my education would be affected because ____________. Please remember that education is the paramount duty of the state. My future is our future; don’t let it be sacrificed. Thank you, _______________

3) Send it in

• Keep in mind, a hand written letter often means more than an email, because it means you committed more time to it.Of course, an email is still great, so if you don’t have time, envelopes, pens, or postage, email away. One great resource for emailing is this website ran by the Washington State PTA - great if you only have a minute to spare.