Respond to What you Heard

What you do with the answer is as important as asking the question. Based on the legislator's response, we can hold them accountable, push for further action, or have others follow up with the information. Have someone record the question and answer, or write down what they said right away so that you remember all the nuances of their statements. 

Make sure you fill out this form and report back with the results of your action here

Some suggestions for follow-up:

• Write to them and thank them: At any event, a legislator meets dozens or hundreds of people and answers just as many questions or hears just as many statements. Following up with them is really important. This can be as simple as an email. It will also allow you to follow up with them in the future and remind them of their position.
  Example: This can be as easy as, "It was nice to meet you yesterday. I enjoyed talking to you and I'm glad to hear that you are supportive of XYZ.  In the new year, I look forward to working with you to make this bill a reality. Thank you again."
  
  

• Alert the media: Alert a reporter or us about what you heard, especially if it is groundbreaking. You can also post on social media. Something as simple as, "It was great hearing from Senator XYZ that she will support ABC next session." That lets the legislator and others know that you will be holding them to their promises. 
  Example: This article was published after a Sierra Club member talked to then-Vice President Joe Biden about the Keystone XL pipeline and reported back. The article was a critical element in pushing President Obama to oppose the Keystone XL pipeline.
  
  

• Write a letter-to-the-editor: Write a letter to the editor applauding the person's position, or showing your dismay. It will keep their position on record and will help show them how important the issue is to you. Others may follow and ask them about the same issue or write their own letter of support of our position as well.