Alert the Media
Note: Most submissions usually must include the writer’s full name, accurate address, post office box, or rural route number), and telephone number. Most letters should be keep under 300 words. A writer’s telephone number will most likely not be printed, but it is necessary in case they need to contact the writer for some reason.
An easy to use form to e-mail all of your local papers can be found on the Democratic National Committee Web site.
Letter writing tips:
Always refer to current events. When possible, cite another story or letter that has appeared in the publication to which you are submitting your letter.
In his speech of Aug. 5, (Times, “Jones addresses WWA local 246″) Sen. Ben Jones (R-Anytown, Tenn.) said that “Our number one priority this term should be to restore confidence in our economy, and keep America’s jobs here at home.” [...]
Do your homework! The best source for information pertaining to local, state and national issues is the state party’s Web site (http://www.tndp.org)
[...] Perhaps Sen. Jones should have thought about his “priorities” before voting down five separate attempts by Democrats to bring new industry into the region, the most notable being his tie-breaking vote against extending incentives to Webster Widgets Company to locate here, an American company that would have created 500 jobs. The company decided to build in Kentucky.
It is a widely known fact that Sen. Jones has an interest in Cox Widget Co., a company whose entire manufacturing and assembly process is done in Taiwan. He even spoke at their annual company picnic two years ago, a month before the Anytown plant laid off hundreds of hard working Tennesseans. [...]
Have a call to action. It can be for a community to vote for/against a referendum or candidate, or for your lawmaker to take a stand on an issue. Simply saying it isn’t enough; give solid reasons.
[...] Sen. Jones and his entourage of special interest groups has no place in our government. That’s why I support Democrat Randy Smith for the United States Senate.
Smith has served 15 years in the state legislature, and he will stand up for working America. He will keep our jobs here, not send them overseas to line the pockets of Ben Jones’ fat cat cronies.
John Doe
Student
Anytown, Tennessee
National Newspapers
A few more tips …
- Always include your name, address and phone number with a submission. Your address and phone number are not likely to be published, but are important in case the Editor needs to get in touch with you.
- Submissions should stay between 250 and 350 words. Editors have final say in trimming submissions, so try to get your message across concisely.
- Have a friend read it if possible. Even if they disagree with your message, you can get a feel for how it would be received by the general public. Tweak as necessary .
- Don’t lose hope. Even if your letter isn’t published on the first try, keep trying. If it keeps occurring, call the newspaper and ask if there is something you are doing wrong, and what needs to happen for your letters to be published.
- Write often! Constantly watch the news and opinions page for the opportunity to voice your message that when Democrats win, America prospers.
