Advocacy Field Guide for Veterans and Local Activists
(Professional Conduct · Respect · Clarity · Unity)
Foundations
Professionalism first. Treat every meeting as if it were a job interview. Punctuality, dress, and demeanor matter.
Buddy system. Always go in at least two-person teams — “battle buddies.” Provides accountability, moral support, and safety.
Preparation. Draft a script. Rehearse key points. Keep focus.
Documentation. Bring a notebook or tablet to write down exact quotes, commitments, or ambiguities to ensure follow-up.
Team Prep Checklist
1. Identify your roles.
Lead: Delivers the primary talking points.
Support: Takes notes, asks clarifying questions, manages time.
2. Know your office.
Research the member of Congress or state representative’s positions, committee assignments, and public statements.
3. Bring materials.
Talking points (1–page handout optional).
Pen and pad (note exact wording).
Contact sheet (so office has a way to follow up).
Sample Script for Office Visit
(Adjust based on meeting length and personality of staff/official)
Introduction (1 minute):
“Good morning, my name is [Name], I’m a veteran and part of a local community group here in [District]. Thank you for meeting with us today. We wanted to raise a few issues that directly concern people in this district.”
Topic 1 – Transparency & Accountability (Epstein Files)
“We believe that government transparency is fundamental to democracy. The public has the right to know the full truth about high-profile cases like the Epstein files. Without full transparency, trust in government and the justice system erodes.”
Ask directly: “Will the Congressman/Senator support releasing records that can responsibly be made public?”
Topic 2 – Project 2025 & Working Families
“We are concerned about the impact of Project 2025 proposals on working-class families, especially cuts to social safety nets, veterans’ benefits, and public programs. Our community can’t afford more strain.”
Ask directly: “Where does the office stand on protecting programs that veterans, workers, and families rely on?”
Topic 3 – National Guard Deployments Inside the U.S.
“We understand the importance of Guard units, but frequent domestic deployment raises questions about readiness, morale, and militarization of civilian spaces. Veterans and their families carry the burden.”
Ask directly: “Will the office commit to reviewing the frequency and scope of Guard mobilizations inside the U.S.?”
Closing (2 minutes):
Restate your three asks clearly.
Example: “So our main requests are: support transparency on Epstein files; oppose harmful Project 2025 proposals; and ensure oversight of National Guard deployments.”
- Thank them for their time, and leave your names/contact information.
Tone & Discipline
Never argue or interrupt. Disagreement should be respectful. Stay nonpartisan in language.
Keep focus on values (transparency, accountability, protecting families, strengthening democracy).
Don’t overpack. Three strong asks make more impact than a laundry list.
Follow-up. Send a thank-you email, attach highlights/notes, and restate the requests in writing.
Condensed Talking Points (Pocket Card)
- Transparency of public records (Epstein): Trust in government requires sunlight.
- Protect working families (Project 2025): Oppose cuts that target veterans, workers, and the vulnerable.
- Guard deployments at home: Oversight needed to protect communities and service members.
Be ready for political non-answers. Not everyone in government will agree with you, and unfortunately, not all of them will even care that you've made the effort. This is only the first step in a long fight. Be prepared for bullshit and make sure you continue to contact your Congresspeople and Senators even if your first contact was "successful." REMEMBER: They are there for you. You are NOT there for them!