Politics For Dummies Cheat Sheet

By Ann DeLaney

If the thought of politics makes you cringe, don’t worry, you can get involved as little or as much as you like in politics. If you want to voice your concerns, use these handy resources to contact your representative, and when you do call, be prepared to offer some information to them. Use a checklist of things to look for (and not look for) when searching for a candidate worthy of your vote.

How to Get Involved in Politics Politics is an area that you may feel like you don’t have a say, but your participation can make a big difference. You have control over the amount of time (and money) you want to contribute, but one thing is critical — you must vote! If you don’t vote, you have no right or leverage to complain about politics, politicians, or government. Check out the following things you can do to be politically active: Register to vote.

Vote in every election.

Join a political party.

Vote in primaries.

Read and listen to the information about the candidates — cast an informed vote.

Ask questions of candidates and elected officials.

Don’t hesitate to tell officials when they’ve done something you don’t like.

Thank officials when they do something you do like.

Use your phone, the mail, your fax, your computer e-mail — let your representatives hear from you often.

Circulate petitions and join with others who think as you do.

Become a delegate to a national convention. If you’re not sure if your voter registration is current or are unclear about your voting district or precinct, head on over to Turbo Vote. They can give you the information you need.

How to Contact Elected Officials If you feel strongly about an issue and want to exercise your newfound political skills, just pick up your phone and voice your opinion to the people who represent you. If you cannot find the phone numbers of your congressperson, state representative, or state senator listed in the government section of your phone book, try contacting one of the following offices: County board of elections or voter registration

State election board

Local office of the League of Women Voters

Public library

State or county headquarters of the Republican or Democratic party Ask the person to give you the following information (make sure you have your address book with you): Your congressional district, congressperson, and the office phone number

Your legislative district, state legislator, and the main number at the statehouse

Your state senate district, state senator, and a phone number at the statehouse Ask whether the official has a toll-free number and/or an e-mail address. Check your voter registration card; it may list your ward and precinct. That information makes it easier for the county office to determine which district you live in.

Information to Have When Calling Elected Officials Legislators and other elected officials are busy people, and a lot of people want a piece of their time. After you’ve found the contact information for your representative, review the following checklist before you call to make that call both more effective and more respectful: Be prepared to give your name and address.

Tell the person precisely why you are calling.

If you are calling about a particular piece of legislation, give the number of the bill, if possible.

Tell the individual whether you are for or against the legislation and why.

Be patient; other voters may be calling to express their views, too.