When I joined HOME Line as a Public Policy Intern, I knew I’d gain first hand exposure to the legislative process and stakeholder advocacy. Early on, I found myself in a situation every lobbyist looks forward to: meeting their legislators. As someone without experience lobbying, this seemed like a daunting task. Still, part of the reason I wanted to be at HOME Line as a Master of Public Health student was to flex my public policy muscles and make a difference on issues affecting many Minnesotans, so I was up for the challenge.
My first meeting was a formal, 15-minute discussion with my Senator about a bill HOME Line was revising. Despite rehearsing with Michael Dahl, I struggled during mock meetings and worried I’d stumble in the real one. However, with anxiety building up, instead of actively succumbing to my nerves, I hammered the four key points of our bill into my head and was ready to give it my best shot.
When my Senator called me in, I introduced myself, explained my role, and summarized our proposal. Since they hadn’t read the bill, I walked them through it, answering questions as best I could. When I wasn’t sure of an answer, I assured them I’d follow up with my Public Policy Director. Impressed with my explanation, she said, “These seem like great ideas. Let me know how I can assist in moving this forward.” As I concluded my short pitch on our policy proposal, we shook hands, and they asked me to place a pin on their district map on the wall, which I proudly did to mark my first legislative meeting.
My next meeting with a legislator was much less formal. As I waited outside a session in the House of Representatives, I was reminded of the joke Michael told me on my first day on the job: “You know why they call us lobbyists, right? It’s because we’re always waiting in the lobby.” He wasn’t wrong, to say the least. After sending my representative a slip requesting a quick chat, I waited nearly two hours without a response. As legislators exited the House Chamber, I spotted my representative and seized the moment. I had just three minutes to summarize our policy objectives, so I got straight to the point and asked, “Does this sound like legislation you could support if it reaches the floor?” To my surprise, they expressed interest in learning more and keeping in touch and asked to take a selfie together for their social media.
These two experiences taught me valuable lessons about advocacy, preparation, and relationship-building in the legislative process. My advice for anyone stepping into similar roles is simple: embrace the learning curve, be prepared but adaptable, and don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t have all the answers. Legislators appreciate honesty, clarity, and passion for the issues at hand. Whether you have a structured office meeting or a quick hallway conversation, every interaction is an opportunity to build rapport and advance your cause. Advocacy may seem intimidating initially, but with each experience, you’ll gain confidence and a deeper understanding of how to effectively champion policy changes that make a real difference.
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