Page 7 - ToolKit FlipBook

Fact Checking Resources
Be careful to avoid spreading information that has not been confirmed as
being true. There are many fake organizations/individuals that spread untrue
information as fact. Check for name of the source and date the content was
written.
http://www.factcheck.org/
We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit “consumer advocate” for voters that aims
to reduce the level of deception and confusion in U.S. politics.
FactCheck.org is a project of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the
University of Pennsylvania.

http://www.Politifact.com
PolitiFact is a fact-checking website that rates the accuracy of claims by
elected officials and others who speak up in American politics. PolitiFact is
run by editors and reporters from the Tampa Bay Times, an independent
newspaper in Florida

Tips for Communications
Elected officials want to be informed and responsive to their constituent's
needs. A well-constructed call, email or letter can provide valuable infor-
mation and feedback that helps the official choose an informed position.
NOTE: In today’s environment with such ease of obtaining information,
officials tend to prefer electronic or phone communications.

1. Use the correct form of address (and/or mailing address) – i.e. The
Honorable, Dear Senator, Dear Representative.
2. Avoid form letters; personal letters have more impact.
3. Be concise. Brief messages are more effective and more likely to be read.
Address only one issue in each correspondence.
4. Be specific. If you are asking for support of or opposition to a specific bill,
include its number and name, title or subject (House bill: H.R.____, Senate
bill: S.____). Communicate how the legislation impacts you, your col-
leagues, your students, etc., if possible.
5. Include return address and contact information. Increase impact by send-
ing copies to your senators, members of Congress, and locally elected
leaders.
6. Ask for a reply. Follow up within a week.
7. Timing is essential. Know how the legislative process works. Send your
correspondence when the bill first reaches committee to have greatest
impact. Follow up with a contact before the bill is voted on.