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courtesy visit letter to a politician

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  • Section 1. Writing Letters to Elected Officials

Chapter 33 Sections

  • Section 2. Writing Letters to the Editor
  • Section 3. Criticizing Unfavorable Action
  • Section 4. Filing a Complaint
  • Section 5. Seeking Enforcement of Existing Laws or Policies
  • Section 6. Using Personal Testimony
  • Section 7. Lobbying Decisionmakers
  • Section 8. Establishing Lines of Communication with the Opposition's Traditional Allies
  • Section 9. Conducting a Petition Drive
  • Section 10. General Rules for Organizing for Legislative Advocacy
  • Section 11. Developing and Maintaining Ongoing Relationships with Legislators and their Aides
  • Section 12. Registering Voters
  • Section 13. Conducting a Public Hearing
  • Section 14. Organizing Public Demonstrations
  • Section 15. Seeking a Negotiator, Mediator, or Fact-Finder
  • Section 16. Initiating Legal Action
  • Section 17. Organizing a Boycott
  • Section 18. Organizing a Strike
  • Section 19. Using Social Media for Digital Advocacy
  • Section 20. Advocacy Over and For the Long Term
  • Main Section

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What is a letter to an elected official?

By now you are probably looking for ways to get your issue noticed by people who have the power to help you. To get the best results, you will probably want to try several of the direct action methods discussed in this chapter. In this section, we will show you the best way to write a letter to your elected officials.

A well-written personal letter may be the most effective way to communicate with elected officials. They want to know how their constituents feel about issues, especially when those issues involve decisions made by them.

Your elected officials usually know what advocacy groups are saying about an issue, but they may not understand how a particular decision affects you. A well-written letter describing your experiences, observations, and opinions may help persuade an official in your favor.

Until a short time ago, you had two options if you wanted to contact an elected official: telephone and the mail. In the last several years, e-mail has been added and become the medium of choice. It’s fast, it gets read, and – at least in the U.S. – virtually all elected officials, from town councils to the President, use and welcome e-mail communication. Any guidelines for writing letters in this section – the style to use, the information to include – apply to e-mail as well. A letter to your Congressman, whether it’s sent through the post office or electronically, should be formal and as well-written as you can make it. A political communication, to be taken seriously, should send the message that you care enough about the subject to take some care in writing about it. In the days before e-mail, officials generally considered letters more important than phone calls, because they took more thought and effort. A proper e-mail letter carries the same message – this person has really thought about this, and has put some work into sending his opinion.

Why write to elected officials?

Maybe you're not convinced that writing a letter to your elected official is the best way to spend your time. There are several reasons it’s worth your while, including:

  • To explain to an official how a particular issue affects you or your group.
  • To express support for a proposed law, policy, or course of action.
  • To oppose a proposed law, policy, or course of action.
In any of the above cases, the letter may include information about the issue that the official may not have, or suggest an alternate course of action that she hasn’t previously heard about.
  • To demonstrate to an official that his constituents are aware of an issue and have a real interest in the outcome.
  • To inform an official about an issue or situation, giving background and history that she may not have.
  • To attempt to persuade an official to vote in a certain way on an issue, or to take other related action.
  • To build your reputation as a thoughtful person in the eyes of the officials, and thus make your criticism or support more influential, or to put yourself in the position of the person to be consulted when the official needs information about your issue.
  • To request a meeting to discuss the issue or some related matter of concern.
  • To thank an official for support given, or action taken.
  • To criticize an official for a past vote or action.
  • To put an official on notice that you and your group are watching his actions, and that he needs to take your votes into account at election time.
  • To ask an official to state her position on a particular issue, or to reveal her voting record.
  • To ask for help or support.
This type of letter often falls under the heading of “constituent support,” and concern individual problems with government – being denied military disability payments, for example, or being singled out for harassment by a local official.  The reason it’s included in this list is that it can sometimes lead an official to work to change procedures, policies, or laws that discriminate against or make life harder for a whole class of people – veterans, farmers, widows, etc.. Another purpose of this type of letter is to enlist the official’s support in a community or larger initiative of some sort.  This may be a request that he become a legislative champion for the effort, that he simply lend his name to the initiative’s list of public supporters or sponsors, or that he serve on a board or steering committee for the effort.

The letter may include information about the issue that the official may not have, or suggest an alternate course of action that she hasn’t previously heard about.

This type of letter often falls under the heading of “constituent support,” and concern individual problems with government – being denied military disability payments, for example, or being singled out for harassment by a local official. The reason it’s included in this list is that it can sometimes lead an official to work to change procedures, policies, or laws that discriminate against or make life harder for a whole class of people – veterans, farmers, widows, etc..

Another purpose of this type of letter is to enlist the official’s support in a community or larger initiative of some sort. This may be a request that he become a legislative champion for the effort, that he simply lend his name to the initiative’s list of public supporters or sponsors, or that he serve on a board or steering committee for the effort.

When should you write letters to elected officials?

When would you want to write that letter? Whenever an issue arises that concerns your group, but especially when:

  • You want an official to consider a certain action or policy (e.g., increasing funding for a program for senior citizens).
  • There is an upcoming vote on a policy that concerns your group. Letters are most effective when the vote is about to be taken. This is a good time to use e-mail.
  • You want to respond (positively or negatively) to a completed action or a change in policy (e.g., enacting a law that requires people to wear seatbelts).
  • You want to point out a deficiency or need in a particular area (e.g. more public transportation to the community health clinics, more police patrols through your neighborhood).
  • You need information (e.g. about what happened the last time a certain issue came up for a vote).
  • You need advice (how to approach another official, what kind of event will attract large numbers of officials to take notice, etc.). In this instance, you’d probably be writing to an official that you’ve already had positive contact with.

Another way to look at this question is to think about when a letter will have the most effect. There are particular times when letters are more likely to be carefully considered, and when officials are more likely to be responsive.

  • Just before an election. Most elected officials become extremely anxious to please when they’re running for reelection.
  • Right before an important vote. Officials will usually be receiving communication from many people on both sides of the issue when an important vote is coming up, so this is an especially crucial time to let your opinion be known.
  • Just before and in the midst of the budget process. One of the most important things that legislators, town councils, and some other bodies do is set the budget for the coming year. Whether your concern is local, regional, state or provincial, or nationwide, most of the coming year’s policy and action related to health and human services, the environment, public safety, education, transportation, and a number of other important issues is determined, not by laws, but by the amount of money allowed for them in the annual budget. If you have priorities for funding, now is the time to make them known.
  • Immediately after an official has done something you approve or disapprove of. There are two reasons why this communication should be immediate. The first is so that the action is still fresh in the official’s mind, and he can respond to your support or criticism. The second is that he will be hearing from folks on the other side, and he needs to know either that not everyone approves of his action, or that, regardless of all the negative letters, there are people out there who think he’s doing the right thing. Officials need to know who supports or objects to which of their positions. It can help them continue to work for the things you care about in the face of opposition, or can push them in that direction if they’re not doing it already.
The really crucial times to write this sort of letter are when an official is under attack for doing something you believe in – think of officials in the American South in the 1950’s and ‘60’s who supported racial integration – or has just done something outrageous – given out a billion-dollar contract in return for a huge bribe, for example. In either of these cases, the official needs to know either that you support her wholeheartedly, and will work to help her, or that you want her to resign now, and will work to have her prosecuted and jailed.

How do you write letters to public officials?

So how do you write letters to public officials, anyhow? We have a number of guidelines that should help you not only write the letter, but increase the chances that it will be actually read and taken seriously.

Decide on the recipient.

Get the name, title, and address of the official who will make the decision about your issue. Watch to make sure that all names are spelled correctly and that you have the proper address. An incorrect name counts against you. An incorrect address may mean your letter might not arrive at all.

If you’re concerned with politics or issues at all, you should make it your business to know the names and contact information (address, office phone, and e-mail) of all those who represent you, from the most local to the federal government. In the U.S., at least, you can get to know your representatives at any level of government if you make the effort. If you’re an activist, you may meet with them, or at least speak to them or their aides fairly regularly. If that’s the case, letters from you will be taken seriously.

Open the letter in an official manner.

If you are writing to an elected official, show respect for the position by using the title of the office, and the official's full name. In any other letter, use the familiar term "Dear," the title Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss, or Dr., and the official's full name.

Example: January 5, 2008 Title [Name of Representative or Senator] House of Representatives [OR] U.S. Senate Office Address Washington, D.C. 20515

Explain the purpose for your letter.

Let your reader know immediately what your letter is about. Tell him/her why you are concerned or pleased that a particular decision is being considered.

Example: The proposed increase in the gasoline tax will make the cost of transportation unreasonably high for commuters in the metropolitan area.

Summarize your understanding of the issue/decision being considered.

State the general impact that you expect to occur if a particular decision is made.

Example: The creation of a peer-counseling program at our high school will help reduce the number of teen pregnancies in our community.

Explain your position on this issue.

Describe in detail why you feel the decision made will lead to the impact you foresee.

Example: This will provide opportunities for our high school students to discuss pressures they experience with their peers at this critical time in their lives.

Describe what any changes will mean to you, and to others.

Describe specifically the positive or negative effects the decision will have on you personally and on those you represent. The more people affected by the decision, the more convincing you may be.

Example: This program will help provide career opportunities for teenagers in our community.

Identify others who may be affected by this decision.

Tell the official which, and how many, people will be affected. Statistics can be very helpful here.

Example: A recent study showed that 80% of minors who smoke obtain cigarettes at stores that do not ask for any identification. Increased enforcement of the existing laws prohibiting tobacco sales to minors could significantly reduce the rate of smoking among our youth.

Acknowledge past support.

Mention appropriate actions and decisions the official has made in the past and express thanks for them.

Example: We appreciate your past support of the bill protecting the rights of emergency medical crews to not be tested for HIV.

Describe what action you hope the official will take.

State specifically what action you (and those you represent) hope the official will take--and by what date, if there is a deadline.

Example: We hope you realize the best course of action to protect our community's infants and young children is to vote "yes" to House Bill #689b.

If you have written a letter that opposes some action, offer an alternative.

Example: I believe that rather than increasing the number of police cars patrolling our neighborhood, a cheaper and more effective alternative would be to work with our community to develop a community-policing program.

If you have time and you are committed, ask how you can help

Example: Our group is more than willing to explore the various options in helping make our community a safer place to live.

Close and sign your letter.

Thank the official and sign your full name. Make sure your address, and phone number are included.

Check your letter for spelling and grammatical errors.

Correct spelling and grammar won't do the job by themselves, but they can help. Why not give your letter every possible advantage?

Letter-writing campaigns

So far, we’ve discussed individual letters. A letter-writing tactic that can be particularly effective is a letter-writing campaign, where dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of people write either to the same official (if they’re all in, or somehow represent people who are in, her district) or to many officials about a specific vote, policy, or budget item. This can be extremely effective, especially when the letter-writers are people who don’t usually contact their elected officials.

In Massachusetts, when funding for Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL) was being debated in the state legislature, over a thousand ABE and ESOL students wrote letters to their representatives explaining why funding was important to them personally. At the same time, program staff and administrators, volunteers, and advocates wrote letters to their own representatives explaining why ABE and ESOL were important to their communities and to the state. The letters from students were particularly powerful, many of them explaining that a year or two earlier, they couldn’t have written those letters. It was the opportunity to enter an ABE or ESOL program that had made the difference. Legislators responded, and funding for adult education was significantly increased.

If you want to engage in a letter-writing campaign, you have to prepare properly. Many people, especially people who see themselves as powerless and unimportant, and who may have little education, are intimidated by the thought of writing to someone in power. In many countries, writing such a letter can carry a certain amount of economic, social, or physical risk. (After a State House rally in the same year as the letter-writing campaign described above, one ESOL student was overheard to remark, “In my country, they shoot you for this.”) Even in democracies governed by the rule of law, people may be fearful of being punished for speaking out.

In addition to reluctance based on feelings of fear and intimidation, many people affected by an issue – especially those with low levels of education – can be embarrassed by their poor writing skills, or feel that they don’t have anything convincing to say. They need help putting their letters together, and they need a model to go by. The coordinators of the letter-writing campaign should be aware of what they have to do to meet these needs.

First, the campaign should contact potential letter writers with a request for letters, and a simple but complete explanation of why the campaign is needed, and what the important issues relating to it are. People can’t write letters that make sense unless they understand clearly why they’re writing. The chances are that, while advocates can – and perhaps do – go over the politics of the issue in their sleep, most people affected by it know very little about how it plays out politically, or even about how the political system handles issues. The better they understand what’s happening and the specific job their letters are expected to do, the more persuasive the letters they can write.

Along with this, the campaign should provide one or more templates for letters. A template is a pattern for the letters, illustrating the form of the letter on the page, with the sender’s and recipient’s addresses and date in the appropriate places at the top, and a formal signature at the bottom, as well as a sample of the content of the letter.

A template literally means a cut-out pattern that is used to make several identical pieces of wood, metal, or some other material that are part of something larger. A builder might use a paper or wooden template to cut a number of identical rafters to hold up a roof, for example.

In general, people affected by the issue should include : A description of who they are – single working mother, person with a disability, job training participant, ex-Marine. The fact that they’re residents of the official’s district, or participants in a program in his district. What they want the official to do. Their connection to the issue – program participant, staff person, community volunteer, parent of a child with disabilities.

Anywhere from one sentence up to a paragraph or two explaining what the issue means to them and/or how it has affected them personally. For program participants and others affected by the issue, this is by far the most important part of the letter. Officials are more often swayed by personal stories than by impersonal statistics, no matter how telling those statistics may be. If people can explain how a program changed their lives for the better, or how the lack of services has been a barrier for them, it’s likely that officials will pay attention.

Finally, campaign coordinators should make sure that those for whom letter-writing is difficult have access to help. In the Massachusetts adult education campaign, that was easy: letters were often written as part of a class, and students approached them as writing assignments, completing two or three drafts before the letter was ready to be sent. In other situations, you’ll have to make sure that program staff and others are available to encourage and empower people, and to help them write the best letters they can.

Should you use e-mail?

With the speed and ease of delivery, it's common to use e-mail and send your correspondence via the computer. Doing so, particularly for formal letters, has several advantages:

  • It is much faster than normal mail. This also makes it possible for the official to respond much more quickly.
  • It saves the trouble of addressing an envelope, buying a stamp, and mailing your letter.
  • Electronic mail is less likely to get lost on the receiver's desk.

However, note that the last can also be a disadvantage . Unless the recipient goes through the trouble to print your message, it may be gone with one tap of the delete key – and out of mind as well. If you are going to use e-mail for your correspondence, be particularly clear and emphatic about your message from the beginning.

Writing letters to elected officials is a good way to explain how an issue affects you or your group. It also can build your reputation as a thoughtful person, giving you more influence with the people in power. A letter is also a good way to get your issue noticed by people who have the power to help you.

Online Resources

Action Tips  provides information for communicating with public officials, and the webpage includes an example letter.

Contact Officials  is a site provided by the United States government with links that give you contact information for the official you’re interested in contacting.

Early Childhood Advocacy Toolkit provides resources on framing your message and communicating with the media as well as policy makers and elected officials.  

Effective E-mail Communication from the University of North Carolina provides tips on professional e-mail writing and communicating via e-mail. 

How Do I Write an Effective Advocacy Letter?  Is a webpage from the Hearing Loss Association of America, Delaware Chapters, and it provides information specific to drafting advocacy letters to elected officials.

10 Tips  provides 10 tips on effectively communicating with legislators to make your message stand out to them.

Writing Your Elected Official is a guide provided by the Children’s Defense Fund, and it provides information on effectively communicating with elected officials.

Print Resources

Bates, D. J.(1985). Writing with precision . Washington, DC: Acropolis.

Fitch, B. (2010).  Citizen’s Handbook to Influencing Elected Officials: Citizen Advocacy in State Legislatures and Congress: A Guide for Citizen Lobbyists and Grassroots.  The Capitol Net, Inc. This book offers practical guidance for reaching elected officials with a variety of different communication strategies.

Homan, M.(1994). Promoting community change: Making it happen in the real world . Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks-Cole Publishing Co.

Managing correspondence--Plain letters, [available from the Superintendent of Documents, Washington, DC: 20402]

Roman,K., & Raphaelson, J. (1992).  Writing that works . New York, NY: Harper Collins.

Seekins, T., & Fawcett, S. The Research and Training Center on Independent Living.(1984). A guide to writing letters to public officials: Contributing to important decisions affecting you and others. University of Kansas.

Stonecipher, H. (1979). Editorial and persuasive writings: Opinion functions of the news media . New York, NY: Hastings House.

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Sample Invitation for a Legislator or Candidate to Attend an Event

Sample Invitation for a Legislator or Candidate to Attend an Event

You are here

Below is a sample invitation to an event that you can send to a legislator or candidate.

Dear  [Representative / Senator / Dr. / Honorable / Councilmember Last Name] :

[Organization name]  is pleased to invite you to our biannual, nonpartisan legislative breakfast. It will be held at the Marriott Hotel on August 21, 2017, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. This is our fifth year holding this event, and we have traditionally hosted more than  [number]  early childhood educators, partners, parents, and allies. We would be honored to have you join us and  [indicate what role you would like the legislator to play at the event, for example: offer opening remarks; serve on a panel; be a keynote speaker; etc.]

Given your commitment to  [insert details on how this event aligns with the legislator’s passions and interests] , we think this would be a great event for you to share your priorities and to learn firsthand how  [organization name] works to promote high-quality early learning for all children in our state. The biannual legislative breakfast is an excellent occasion to reach families, educators, and community partners who collaborate with  [organization name]  in striving to ensure that all children in  [state/city/town] , birth to age 8, have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

As part of the agenda for this year’s breakfast, we are focusing attention on  [list issues/legislation of importance] . We welcome your contributions to the event, and ask you to note that because  [organization name]  is a 501c(3) organization, we operate entirely as a nonpartisan entity and will be hosting legislators, partners, and organization members from both sides of the aisle to celebrate and promote the bipartisan issue of early childhood education.

[Note: insert this paragraph if the policy maker is also currently running for office:]  Candidates such as you, who are invited to speak, are asked not to use this event as a campaign opportunity. Should you accept our invitation, we ask you and your staff to remember that we do not support or oppose any candidate, and request that you kindly refrain from using the event to ask for votes, solicit contributions, distribute campaign literature, or ask for volunteers to assist in your campaign.

Please contact  [include contact information for event liaison]  for more information and to discuss this invitation further. We look forward to your attendance at our legislative breakfast and to your engagement in our exciting work on behalf of children, families, and educators in our community.

[Name], [Title] [Organization name]

How to Write a Meeting Request to Ministers and MPs

courtesy visit letter to a politician

Meeting Requests 101                                    

As a government affairs professional, one of your primary responsibilities is to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with government representatives. This includes elected officials, appointed bureaucrats, and other key stakeholders in the legislative and regulatory processes. Building strong relationships with government representatives requires establishing your credibility and trustworthiness.

Some ways to do this include:

  • Demonstrating expertise in your organisation's policy areas by providing well-researched and accurate information.
  • Being transparent about your organisation's goals and interests.
  • Following through on commitments and maintaining open lines of communication.
  • Respecting their time and avoiding excessive or unnecessary contact.
  • Have an in person meeting with the elected official or government stakeholder.

Everything you need to know about writing meeting requests to Ministers and MPs 

Who to send it to.

  • The Minister/MPs office account (published on their parliamentary website + GovConnex)
  • (Cc) Chief of Staff email (if known)*
  • (Cc) Advisor (if known)
  • (Cc) Diary Secretary (if known)

‍ *GovConnex customers have exclusive access to verified profiles of chiefs of staff and media advisers in federal minister's offices with Rolodex Pro.

How to send the request

The meeting request should be formal and written on your company's letterhead. This formal request should be attached to a short 1-2 line email outlining the request and stating that a formal request is attached. It is crucial that the request is included in the email as many staffers may not open the attachment straight away.

‍ Example:  

Dear Minister,

I am writing to request a meeting with you to discuss the federal government’s support for tech start-ups in Australia. Please see attached a formal request.

Kind regards,

What to write

  • State your request - the first paragraph should be direct, outlining that you are requesting a meeting. Make sure you include the subject matter of the proposed meeting in this paragraph. Also include in what capacity you would like to meet them. For example, if you are meeting with Richard Marles, you would state whether you would like to meet him in his capacity as Defence Minister or Deputy Prime Minister.
  • Introduce your company - the next paragraph should introduce exactly what your company does, try to outline the ways in which your company is benefiting/contributing towards their electorate/jurisdiction.
  • Compliment the Minister/MP - try to compliment the Minister/MP on a recent achievement relevant to your industry.
  • Background - outline the background behind why you require a meeting.
  • Search GovConnex for a relevant quote - use research tools like GovConnex to find relevant quotes that may assist in supporting your proposal.
  • Outline how your request/objectives would benefit the Minister/MP - try to find a link between their governments policy objectives and your proposal.
  • Offer dates and times - acknowledge the value of the Minister/MP's time and be flexible on dates.
  • CC external stakeholders at the end of the letter - if you are CCing other politicians or stakeholders, their details should be included at the bottom of the letter.
  • Be respectful - don’t assume a meeting request will be granted, be humble and respect their office.

courtesy visit letter to a politician

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University Libraries

Government information connection: politics and elected officials: how to write a letter to your legislator.

  • Introduction
  • Denton County Voters Guide
  • Denton County Residents Legislative Directory
  • Online Access to Elected Officials
  • How to Write a Letter to Your Legislator
  • Tracking Federal Legislation in Congress
  • Researching the United States Congress
  • Years and Sessions of Congress
  • Tracking State Legislation in Texas
  • Voting and Elections
  • U.S. Political Parties and Activist Groups
  • Civic Engagement Resources

How to Write a Letter to your Legislator or other Elected Officials

Emails and letters are effective ways to communicate with elected and other government officials. Here are some t ips on proper format and effective content for a letter urging an action or expressing an opinion to a member of Congress or a member of the state legislature.

For more advice on writing to your legislator, see "Your Right to Write,” by Morris K. Udall ( The University of Arizona Library ).

The American Library Association gives the following advice on writing to your legislator:

When mailing a physical letter, use your official letterhead, if possible. If this is not appropriate, and you write as an individual, use plain white bond paper, and give your official title following your signature as a means of identification and to indicate your competency to speak on the subject.

"Sincerely yours" is in good taste as a complimentary close. Remember to sign your given name and surname. If you use a title in your signature, be sure to enclose it in parentheses.

The American Psychological Association (APA) offers nine tips for writing to elected officials, whether by postal mail or email:  https://www.apa.org/advocacy/guide/letter-email

Tips on Communicating with Government Officials via Mail or Email

Here are some tips from the University of California Berkeley Library on contacting and communicating with your elected official through letters or e-mail:

  • Be Original:  Consider writing your own original correspondence. While many organizations can provide you a pre-written letter or postcard that you simply sign, many legislators consider a thoughtful, original letter from a constituent worth 1000 of the pre-written letters. Feel free to use a pre-written letter as a base to rework with your own words.  
  • Stay Brief:  Government officials are usually very busy. The maximum length of a letter/e-mail should be one page. Keep in mind that the letter will probably be read by a legislative aid, so a brief letter is best.  
  • State Who You Are and What You Are Writing About:  Identify yourself as a constituent and why you are writing in the first place first paragraph. This will keep your letter brief. However, refrain from using lines such as "As a citizen and a taxpayer..." and never make a threat.  Also, if you know the bill name or number state it in the first paragraph.  
  • Personalize Your Letter/E-mail:  If the legislation you are writing about will affect you personally, tell the legislator about it. Write a brief personal story about what the legislation will/will not do for you and/or your community.  
  • Personalize Your Relationship:  The more you can personalize your relationship with the legislator, the stronger your letter/e-mail will be. If you worked on his/her campaign or donated money to the legislator or their party, say so. If you ever met the legislator, briefly mention this in your letter.  
  • Three Points:  In keeping your correspondence short, consider making no more than three main points. Flush out your three strongest points and stick with them.  
  • Be Respectful:  Taking a firm position on an issue is fine, but opening correspondence with "Dear Idiot" will probably get your letter sent straight to the garbage. Do not use profanity. Even if your legislator is not the person you voted for, remember to be respectful.  
  • Include Your Address in Your Signature, Even in E-mail:  Legislators are busy people, and you should never demand a response. However, some legislators will take the time to write back, but they cannot if you do not include your address. Including your address also affirms the fact that you are a constituent.  
  • Proper Address:  Below are the ways to address your letters:

Dear Mr. President:

Dear Mr. Vice President:

To The Honorable Senator [Name]:

To The Honorable Representative [Name]:

  • Follow up:  After you have contacted your elected official, follow up on what they did. If he/she voted the way you wanted, consider contacting them to thank him/her. If your legislator did not vote the way you wanted, consider contacting them and respectfully express your disappointment. In any follow-up letter/email, mention the fact that you wrote him/her before the vote was taken.
  • Tips for Writing Effective Letters to Congress Here are some tips from ThoughtCo. writer Robert Longley that will help you write a letter to Congress that has an impact.
  • Ask a Documents Librarian Expert help from UNT's Government Information Connection
  • Ask Us! Library information and expert help with your research questions.
  • Your legislators like to hear opinions from home and want to be kept informed of conditions in the district. Base your letter on your own experiences and observations.
  • If writing about a specific bill, describe it by number or its popular name. Your legislators have thousands of bills before them in the course of a year, and cannot always take time to figure out which one you are referring to.
  • They appreciate intelligent, well-thought-out letters that present a definite position.
  • Even more important and valuable to them is a concrete statement of the reasons for your position--particularly if you are writing about a field in which you have specialized knowledge. Representatives have to vote on many matters with which they have had little or no first-hand experience. Some of the most valuable information they receive comes from facts presented in letters from people who have knowledge in the field.
  • Short letters are almost always best. Members of Congress receive many letters each day, and a long one may not get as prompt a reading as a brief statement.
  • Letters should be timed to arrive while the issue is alive. Members of the committee considering the bill will appreciate having your views while the bill is ripe for study and action.
  • Remember to follow through with a thank-you letter.
  • Letters that demand votes for or against a certain bill without giving any reasoning are not very influential.
  • Threats of defeat at the next election are not effective.
  • Boasts of how influential the writer is are not helpful.
  • Do not ask for a vote commitment on a particular bill before the committee in charge of the subject has had a chance to hear the evidence and make its report.
  • Form letters or letters that include excerpts from other letters on the same subject are not as influential as a simple letter drawing on your own experience.
  • Congressional courtesy requires legislators to refer letters from non-constituents to the proper offices, so you should generally confine your letter-writing to members of your state's delegation or members of the committee specifically considering a bill.
  • Do not engage in letter writing overkill. Quality, not quantity, is what counts.

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  • Writing Letters to Officials

How to Address a Letter to a Government Official

Last Updated: January 23, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Tami Claytor . Tami Claytor is an Etiquette Coach, Image Consultant, and the Owner of Always Appropriate Image and Etiquette Consulting in New York, New York. With over 20 years of experience, Tami specializes in teaching etiquette classes to individuals, students, companies, and community organizations. Tami has spent decades studying cultures through her extensive travels across five continents and has created cultural diversity workshops to promote social justice and cross-cultural awareness. She holds a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Relations from Clark University. Tami studied at the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned her Image Consultant Certification. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,276,015 times.

Writing a letter to a government official can be a great way to weigh in on what's going on in your nation, state, or locality. Search online for the official mailing address of the leader that you wish to contact. The proper addressing etiquette varies from official to official, so make sure to look up the standard for the specific person to whom you are sending the letter!

Things You Should Know

  • Address your letter with the official's title, full name, and address. Then, make sure to include your name and a stamp in left and right corners respectively.
  • Ask for something actionable and realistic. For example, ask them to raise the budget for your child's school.
  • Keep your letter formal and appropriate. Show this official respect and use a professional tone of voice.

Sample Letters

courtesy visit letter to a politician

Addressing the Letter

Step 1 Learn the official's name.

  • If you’re in the US, you can find a comprehensive list of contact information for national, state, and local administrators at https://www.usa.gov/ .
  • If you’re not sure who to address, look for the address of the relevant department. For instance, you could write your local DMV office or the Department of Homeland Security.

Step 3 Address the letter...

Following Proper Etiquette

Step 1 Show due respect.

  • If writing to an embassy or ambassador, read How to Address Ambassadors .

courtesy visit letter to a politician

  • It never hurts to include the official's name, even if he or she is the only person holding the position. A personally-addressed letter lends a certain degree of humanity to your message.

Step 3 Read sample letters, or send a form letter.

  • If you’re unsure of what to write, try looking up a form letter and a clear subject line that gets your point across. Some elected officials receive hundreds of letters a day, and oftentimes don’t read them all closely.

Writing an Actionable Letter

Step 1 Ask for something doable.

  • Petitions and form letters are usually well-written and actionable. Make sure, however, that the demanded actions fall within the scope of this official's duties.

Step 2 Get your letter to the top of the stack.

  • The letters that wind up at the top of the stack will be readable, relevant, and easy for the official to understand.
  • Be sure to include your qualifications and explain why the official should listen to you. For example, if you’re a Ph.D., you live in the town that’s been in the news lately, or you recently met the official, they may take note of your opinion.

Step 3 Make sure that your letter is appropriate.

  • Do not threaten a government official. The letter can be traced back to you. Beyond any risk, your threats will not necessarily inspire productive action.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • If you need more help, U.S. citizens can contact the Department of State's Office of Protocol at 202-647-2663. Representatives are available to answer etiquette questions over the phone. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • If you wish to write the current First Lady of the United States, she should be addressed simply as Mrs. [Last Name] on both the envelope and in the salutation. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • When writing a letter to a woman, address the recipient using her full name, not the name of her husband. While she may share her last name with her partner, she remains her own person and deserves to be addressed as such. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

courtesy visit letter to a politician

You Might Also Like

Write a Letter

  • ↑ http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-elected-officials/main
  • ↑ https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-elected-officials/main
  • ↑ http://pai.org/silentpartner/documents/letter_govt_official.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.share4rare.org/sites/default/files/imce/S4R_Tools_Letter%20to%20politician.pdf
  • ↑ https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/structure/strategic-planning/develop-action-plans/main

About This Article

Tami Claytor

To address a letter to a government official, first you need to find the official’s name and titles, which help to demonstrate respect when addressing your letter. Then, find their address by searching online for their name and the phrase “mailing address,” or check USA.gov for a list of addresses for many officials. When writing the envelope, include their full name, titles, and official address clearly and legibly on the front, and be sure to write your return address in the top left corner. Simply place the stamp in the top right and drop the letter in the mail. If you want to learn more, such as how to use actionable language in your letter, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Courtesy Visit Letter Sample: How to Write an Effective One

Courtesy Visit Letter Sample: How to Write an Effective One 1

Dear reader,

Are you feeling intimidated by the prospect of writing a courtesy visit letter to an important person or organization? If so, fear no more! A courtesy visit letter can be a highly effective means of building relationships and gaining exposure for your business or cause. However, it can also be a daunting task, leaving many people unsure of how to approach it.

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll provide you with courtesy visit letter samples that you can use as a starting point, or edit as needed to fit your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to schedule a meeting with a potential business partner, extend your gratitude to a mentor, or request a visit from a VIP, we’ve got the right templates to help you succeed.

Our courtesy visit letter samples are designed to help you draft a professional and engaging letter that will capture the recipient’s attention, express your intentions and establish a positive tone. Using just the right words and approach can make a significant difference in the success of your letter, and we’re here to help you achieve that.

So, why wait? Begin drafting your next courtesy visit letter with greater confidence and ease by utilizing our complimentary samples as a guide. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to establish crucial connections and relationships with this simple yet effective communication method.

Start your journey towards your next successful, courteous visit today!

The Best Structure for Courtesy Visit Letter Sample

When it comes to writing a courtesy visit letter, the structure of your letter is crucial. Your letter will either make or break your chances of securing a successful meeting with the recipient. In order to increase the likelihood of receiving a positive response, you need to ensure that your letter is organized and easy to read. Here are some tips on how to structure your courtesy visit letter sample:

1. Introduction: Begin your letter by introducing yourself and explaining the purpose of your letter. It is important to be clear and concise in your introduction, making sure to highlight your interest and enthusiasm to meet with the recipient.

2. The body: In this section of your letter, you should expand on why a meeting with the recipient is important to you. Be sure to explain how their expertise or experience could benefit your project or goals. If possible, give specifics on what you hope to achieve during the meeting and how the recipient could help.

3. Logistics and availability: Once you have explained the purpose for your visit, it is crucial to make the logistics of the meeting as clear as possible. This means providing specific dates and times that work for you, as well as any other scheduling details that may be relevant. It is also important to express flexibility and understanding if the recipient is unable to meet with you at the proposed time.

4. Thank you: Conclude your letter by expressing gratitude for the recipient’s time and consideration. Be sure to include your contact information and reiterate your eagerness to meet with them. Remember to keep the tone of your letter positive and respectful throughout.

By following a clear and structured approach to writing your courtesy visit letter, you will increase your chances of securing a successful meeting with your recipient. Remember to put yourself in their shoes, present yourself in a professional and personable manner, and show your desire to meet with them to achieve mutual benefit.

7 Samples of Courtesy Visit Letter

Letter for courtesy visit to a potential client.

Dear [Client Name],

As the director of [Company Name], I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and my team. It would be a great pleasure for us to visit your office and discuss how we can work together to enhance your business operations. Our expertise in [Industry/Service] can be of great benefit to your company.

We strongly believe in building long-term relationships with our clients, fostering trust and reliability. We are confident that our high-quality services and competitive rates will meet your expectations. During our meeting, we would also like to understand your business requirements in detail and offer customized solutions accordingly.

We look forward to meeting you soon. Please let us know your convenient time and date for the courtesy visit. If you have any queries or concerns, do not hesitate to contact us at [Phone Number/Email Address].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Courtesy Visit Letter to a Professor for Career Guidance

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am [Your Name], a student at [University Name], and I have been following your research and teaching work in [Field/Subject] for quite some time. I admire your dedication and contributions to the academic community.

I am writing to request a courtesy visit to your office to seek your guidance and advice regarding my future career prospects. I am interested in pursuing a career in [Field/Industry], and I believe your insights and suggestions will be valuable in shaping my academic and professional aspirations.

I am willing to accommodate your schedule and preferences for the visit. I would be honored to hear from you and learn from your experiences. Your time and expertise are deeply appreciated.

Thank you for considering my request.

Courtesy Visit Letter to a New Neighbor

Dear [Neighbor Name],

It is a pleasure to learn that we will be sharing the same neighborhood soon. I am [Your Name], and I will be moving to [Address/Building] within the next few days. I believe it is essential to connect with our neighbors and create a friendly and welcoming community.

I am writing to request a courtesy visit to your apartment or house to introduce myself and get to know you better. We could chat over a cup of coffee or tea and discuss our common interests and passions. I am also open to any suggestions or tips regarding the neighborhood, such as the best restaurants, cafes, or parks.

Please let me know if you are available for a brief meeting. I am excited to become part of this vibrant community and make new friends.

Courtesy Visit Letter to a Local Business Owner

Dear [Owner Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am [Your Name], a resident of [City/Town], and I have been a frequent customer at your business, [Business Name]. I appreciate the high-quality products and services you offer, and I believe you have created a positive impact on the local economy and society.

I am writing to request a courtesy visit to your store or office to discuss how we can collaborate and support each other. I am also interested in learning more about your business model, challenges, and achievements. I believe that by sharing our experiences and ideas, we can inspire each other and strengthen our network.

We could schedule the visit according to your availability and convenience. Your time and feedback are highly valued. I am looking forward to meeting you in person and building a lasting relationship.

Thank you for your consideration.

Courtesy Visit Letter to a Nonprofit Organization

Dear [Organization Name],

I am writing this letter to express my appreciation for the remarkable work you are doing in [Cause/Field]. Your dedication and impact have been a great inspiration to me, and I believe your efforts are making a significant difference in the community. It would be an honor for me to contribute to your mission in any possible way.

I am requesting a courtesy visit to your office or event to discuss how I can support your cause. I am interested in volunteering my time, skills, or resources to assist your team in achieving your goals. I am also eager to learn more about your projects, successes, and challenges and spread the word about your organization’s work in my network.

Please let me know if you are available for a brief meeting. I understand your time is precious, and I will adjust to your schedule. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with you and contribute to a better world.

Courtesy Visit Letter to a Government Official

Dear [Official’s Title and Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am reaching out to you as a concerned citizen of [Place], who believes in the power of democracy and civic engagement. I believe our government officials play a crucial role in shaping society, and I admire your commitment and leadership in our community.

I am requesting a courtesy visit to your office or public event to share my thoughts, ideas, and feedback on the issues that matter to me and my fellow citizens. I would like to hear your insights and opinions on the same issues, and discuss possible solutions and actions. I strongly believe that through open dialogue and collaboration, we can create a better future for our society.

Your time and attention are highly appreciated. I am willing to accommodate your preferences and schedule for the visit. I am looking forward to engaging with you and making a positive impact on our community.

Thank you for your consideration and service.

Courtesy Visit Letter to a University Professor for Course Selection Advice

I hope this letter finds you well. I am a student at [University Name] majoring in [Field/Area]. I am in the process of selecting my courses for the next semester, and I believe your expertise and guidance can help me make informed decisions.

I am requesting a courtesy visit to your office to discuss my academic goals and preferences. I am interested in taking courses in [Specific Field/Subject], and I would like to know your recommendations and insights on the best options available. I am also open to any suggestions or feedback regarding my overall academic performance and future career prospects.

Your time and expertise are highly valued. I would be honored to hear from you and learn from your experiences. Please let me know your convenient dates and times for the visit, and I will adjust accordingly.

How to Craft a Polite Courtesy Visit Letter?

Writing a courtesy visit letter can be challenging as it requires you to be polite, professional, and clear in your communication. However, by following some tips and tricks, you can craft an impressive courtesy visit letter that will help you achieve your goals. Here are some tips you may consider while writing a courtesy visit letter:

  • Know your audience: Before you start writing your letter, ensure that you know your audience well. Your language and tone will differ depending on who you are writing to.
  • Keep it short and to the point: Avoid writing long and detailed letters. Keep your letter brief and concise to ensure that your readers don’t lose interest halfway through.
  • Use a professional tone: Maintain a professional tone even if you have a personal relationship with the recipient. Avoid using slang, jargon, or humor, as different people may perceive them differently.
  • Be specific in your request: Clearly state your request, including the purpose of your visit, the date and time, and the duration of the visit.
  • Express appreciation: Show gratitude for the time and consideration that the recipient will give to your request.
  • Proofread your letter: Before sending your letter, proofread it to ensure that it is free from errors or typos. You may want to ask a friend to help you review the letter.
  • Include your contact details: Provide your contact details, including your email address and phone number, so that the recipient can reach you if needed.
  • Follow up: After sending your letter, follow up with a phone call or an email to ensure that the recipient received the letter and to confirm your visit.

By following these tips, you can craft a courteous and professional courtesy visit letter that will increase your chances of achieving your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Courtesy Visit Letter Sample

What is a courtesy visit.

A courteous visit is a common business practice where a person or a team visits a company or an organization to meet and greet the management and staff as a sign of goodwill and mutual respect.

What should the Courtesy Visit Invitation Letter contain?

The courtesy visit invitation letter should be formal and concise. It should indicate the purpose of the visit, the date and time, the duration, and the names and titles of the participants. It should also express gratitude for the opportunity and mention any special requests or requirements.

What are the benefits of a Courtesy Visit?

The benefits of a Courtesy Visit are numerous and include fostering business relationships, networking, showcasing products or services, learning about new trends and practices, exchanging ideas and information, and building trust and rapport.

How should I address the recipients in a Courtesy Visit Letter?

You should address the recipients of a courtesy visit letter with their proper titles and by their full names. Use polite and respectful language throughout the letter, and avoid using familiar or informal expressions unless they are appropriate and necessary.

What is the best time to send a Courtesy Visit Letter?

The best time to send a courtesy visit letter is at least two weeks in advance of the proposed visit date, to allow enough time for the recipients to confirm their availability and make any necessary preparations. However, if the visit is time-sensitive, you may send the letter with less notice.

What are the common mistakes to avoid in a Courtesy Visit Letter?

Some of the common mistakes to avoid in a Courtesy Visit Letter include using a generic or impersonal tone, misspelling the recipients’ names or titles, providing insufficient or inaccurate information, and failing to follow up or confirm the details of the visit.

What should I do if I receive a Courtesy Visit Invitation Letter?

If you receive a courtesy visit invitation letter, you should reply promptly and acknowledge receipt of the letter. Express your appreciation for the invitation and confirm your availability or suggest an alternative date if necessary. Also, ask for any additional information or requirements you may need to know beforehand.

Well, that’s all folks! Thank you so much for reading this article about courtesy visit letter samples. I hope you found it helpful and informative. Next time you need to write a courtesy visit letter, I’m sure you’ll do great! Remember, it’s all about being polite and respectful. Thanks again for stopping by, and please feel free to visit us again soon. Until next time!

Courtesy Letter Sample: Tips for Writing a Polite and Professional Note Get Inspired: Courtesy Call Letter Sample for Your Next Business Meeting Courtesy Resignation Letter Sample: Tips and Examples for a Polite Exit 10 Best Courtesy Letter Examples for Different Scenarios Hotel Booking Cancellation Letter Sample: How to Draft a Professional Cancellation Letter

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How to Write a Letter to a Senator or Representative

A persuasive letter, addressed to a senator or representative, that is worded properly and which contains correct facts, is most likely to get noticed. Such a letter holds the power to make the necessary impact in policy-making. The samples given here will help understand you how to write a letter to a senator or representative.

How to Write a Letter to a Senator or Representative

Affiliating Yourself with a Group

A letter addressed to a senator or representative generally contains the problems faced by an individual or the community as a whole. If, in the letter, you mention that you are affiliated to a certain pressure group, organization, political party, etc., your letter may not get the desired response or attention.

A letter addressed to a senator or representative is written to make one’s voice heard. One shouldn’t consider writing a letter about issues and problems a futile activity. In fact, there is no easier way than writing a letter for citizens to put forth their grievances before their representatives. It is just that you need to have the patience to wait for the response.

Letters written to representatives provide a medium through which citizens can complain about the problems faced by them. They can inform their representatives about these problems, and push for the reforms or changes that they wish to bring about in the society or surroundings. One should be very particular about the facts and figures that are presented through such letters.

Writing a Letter to Your Representative or Senator

Sample letter 1: writing to a senator, sample letter 2: writing to a representative, tips to write the letter.

Consider the following points before you write a letter to your representative or senator.

  • The senator should be addressed as The Honorable Senator or Hon. Sen. (abbreviated form).
  • Use a courteous tone in your letter. Keep your letter short and direct. Writing a concise letter saves the reader’s time, and puts your message across in an effective manner.
  • It is advisable to send a typewritten letter instead of a handwritten one. However, if you wish to send a handwritten one, make sure it is legible and neat.
  • If you want to address a specific bill, you must mention it correctly in the letter. The ‘Thomas Legislative Information System’ should provide you with details pertaining to bills.
  • Websites like senate.gov will help you find the mailing address of your senator.

Senators are very busy people, and they do not personally read or respond to letters. Therefore, you need to be patient and pursue your cause without getting discouraged. One should not send ‘form letters’, because they are likely to get ignored. You never know, your letter could bring about the change you desire.

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Thank You Letter Examples to Members of Congress

Feb 02, 2021

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Key Takeaways

Thank your members of Congress after your interactions to form a good, working relationship.

Use the three sample letters below, personalizing them with issues that are important to you and with specific facts about your local situation.

To help us track our advocacy efforts, please also forward a copy of your thank you letter to NCOA.

Following up after your interactions with Senate and House offices is a critical next step in forming a good, working relationship with your members of Congress and their staff.

You will find three sample letters below, created for various purposes. We encourage you to personalize them with issues that are important to you and with specific facts about your local situation.

We suggest that you send a thank you letter promptly. If you receive a business card from the staffer, you can write to him/her at the email address on the card. Include electronic versions of any materials you originally shared as well as any promised follow-up information. To thank the member of Congress, you can mail a note using contact information for your Senator or Representative in our Action Center . For fastest delivery, mail to the closest State or District Office. Regardless, email a copy of your note to the scheduler and any other staff involved in the meeting.

To help us track our advocacy efforts, please also forward  a copy of your thank you letter to  Marci Phillips , NCOA’s Director of Public Policy & Advocacy. Please contact Marci with any questions you may have as well.

Send if you met directly with a member of Congress

The Honorable (Representative’s name) U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515

The Honorable (Senator’s name) United States Senate Washington, DC 20501

Dear Senator/Representative _________________,

I would like to express my appreciation for the opportunity to meet with you when I was in Washington, DC. I know you are very busy, and I am grateful that you made time to talk with me about issues that are important to seniors.

You will recall that we touched on  [list the key issues that you discussed, e.g. funding for senior programs, long-term services and supports, or other issues] .

[You can include some talking points if you wish, drawing on NCOA’s issue briefs.]

[If you promised to follow up with any other information, include it here.]

I look forward to continuing this relationship and to future meetings with both you and your dedicated staff. In the meantime, if I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

[Your name, title, and organization]

Send to members of Congress when you met with staff only

I would like to express my appreciation for the opportunity to meet with  [Insert staffer’s name]  while I was in Washington, DC. I know your staff is very busy, and I was pleased that we were able to meet and discuss issues that are important to seniors.

[Staffer’s Name]  and I had a productive conversation about  [list the key issues that you discussed, e.g. funding for senior programs, long-term services and supports, or other issues] .

Send to Congressional staff you met with (use the staff person’s direct email address)

Dear _________________,

I would like to express my appreciation for the opportunity to meet with you when I was in Washington, DC.

I look forward to continuing this relationship and to future meetings with you. In the meantime, if I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Kippah ‘not a political statement,’ says rabbi on saudi visit.

Rabbi Abraham Cooper. Courtesy of U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom

(JNS) Rabbi Abraham Cooper, chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, was part of a delegation that was about one-third of the way through a tour of Diriyah, a town in the Riyadh area and the original home of the Saudi royal family.

The group was about to enter Diriyah Gate, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Saudi prime minister’s office had arranged a dinner and a light show for the bipartisan USCIRF mission, which had already met with high-level members of the kingdom’s cabinet.

Rabbi Abraham Cooper.Courtesy of U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom

“I was told there was a phone call for me,” Cooper told JNS. “I was told I was required to remove my kippah in order to continue the tour.”

Cooper, who chairs the Congress-mandated government advisory body and who was part of an official trip to the kingdom, told JNS that he believes that the call originated in the office of Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince known as MBS and prime minister of Saudi Arabia.

“It wasn’t done on a low level,” Cooper said.

The rabbi, also associate dean and director of global social action at the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, told JNS that Saudi Arabia is taking steps toward modernizing reforms, including religious freedom.

“They’re not necessarily being universally applauded,” he said.

Cooper told the person on the other end of the line, “It’s like asking someone to take off their hijab.”

He told JNS that he spent four weeks in the Soviet Union in the early 1970s visiting refuseniks. “I didn’t take off my kippah for the month I was in the Soviet Union, and I’m sure not going to do it there,” he said, of Riyadh.

Cooper told the official on the phone that wearing a the head covering is “not a political statement” for him. “It’s who I am.”

The official called back a minute later and insisted that if Cooper didn’t remove his kippah, the authorities would escort him out.

With the delegation’s full backing, Cooper refused to go bareheaded, and the mission left with him, a gesture that he found meaningful.

“One hundred percent, to me it was very moving. USCIRF is mandated by Congress to be bipartisan, but it’s obvious that religiously, politically, ideologically, we are very different,” he told JNS. “Them having my back was a moment of validation at a time of rising antisemitism.”

The incident at Diriyah Gate was especially surprising given that the rest of the mission, approved by the Saudi Foreign Affairs Ministry, went smoothly, Cooper told JNS. That included meetings with the foreign affairs and interior ministries, the country’s human-rights commission and other officials.

“Regarding a recent incident in which a member of a delegation visiting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Rabbi Abraham Cooper—was denied entry to Diriyah Gate, we would like to convey the following clarification: This unfortunate incident was the result of a misunderstanding of internal protocols,” the Saudi embassy in Washington stated.

“The matter was escalated to senior officials and Her Royal Highness the ambassador had the opportunity to speak with the rabbi,” the embassy added, of Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, a cousin of MBS. “The matter was resolved, but we respect his decision to not continue the tour. We look forward to welcoming him back to the Kingdom.”

Cooper told JNS he had not yet spoken to the ambassador but would be seeing her in Washington at USCIRF’s monthly meeting.

“I’m absolutely committed to going back to Saudi,” Cooper told JNS. Part of his first conversation with the ambassador “will be setting dates” for his return, he said.

The Associated Press reported of Cooper being asked to remove his religious garment that “The current Saudi sensitivity may come in part because of Israel’s grinding war targeting Hamas in the Gaza Strip.”

It reported that the U.S. State Department said it “raised our concerns with Saudi government authorities.”

‘No one should be denied access to a heritage site’

“The United States fully supports freedom of religion or belief, including the right to express beliefs through religious attire,” it added. “The United States continues to work with our Saudi counterparts on religious freedom issues and we hope the net effect of this incident will push Saudi Arabia to make further strides on these issues.”

“Praise is due to the U.S. government delegation that cut short its visit to Saudi Arabia after officials demanded one of its members, Rabbi Abraham Cooper, remove his kippah in public,” wrote the Combat Antisemitism Movement. “Zero tolerance is the only acceptable response to antisemitism.”

USCIRF stated that “After several delays to the tour, officials requested that Cooper, an Orthodox Jewish rabbi, remove his kippah while at the site and anytime he was to be in public, even though the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs had approved the site visit.”

“U.S. Embassy staff accompanying the USCIRF delegation supported and conveyed to Saudi officials Chair Cooper’s polite but resolute refusal to remove the kippah,” it added. “Despite their efforts, site officials escorted the delegation off the premises after chair Cooper indicated he sought no confrontation or provocation but as an observant Jew could not comply with a request to remove his kippah.”

“No one should be denied access to a heritage site, especially one intended to highlight unity and progress, simply for existing as a Jew,” Cooper stated. “Saudi Arabia is in the midst of encouraging change under its 2030 Vision. However, especially in a time of raging antisemitism, being asked to remove my kippah made it impossible for us from USCIRF to continue our visit.”

USCIRF has encouraged the State Department to “designate Saudi Arabia as a ‘country of particular concern,’ or CPC, for systematic, ongoing, and egregious religious freedom violations every year since 2000,” per the commission.

“Saudi officials’ request for chair Cooper to remove his kippah was stunning and painful. It directly contradicted not only the government’s official narrative of change but also genuine signs of greater religious freedom in the kingdom that we observed firsthand,” said Rev. Frederick Davie, vice chair of the commission.

“While we appreciate the various meetings we had in the country with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, the Human Rights Commission and other interlocutors, this unfortunate incident starkly illustrates that much more work remains to be done for Saudi Arabia to align with international legal protections guaranteeing this fundamental right,” he added.

To read more content visit www.jns.org

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The independent source for health policy research, polling, and news.

FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation

Meredith Freed , Tricia Neuman , and Juliette Cubanski Published: Mar 11, 2024

The high cost of prescription drugs continues to be a top health care priority for the public. Policymakers from both parties at the federal and state level have been pursuing a range of options to lower drug prices for Americans, one of which would allow for the safe importation of prescription drugs from Canada. This idea is based on data showing that people in the U.S. often pay more for medications than people in other countries.

On January 5, 2024, Florida became the first state to gain authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to import certain prescription drugs from Canada. Florida’s plan is based on an approach developed under the Trump Administration and executed under the Biden Administration, following an executive order issued by President Biden in July 2021 directing the FDA to work with states to import prescription drugs from Canada. The idea of importing prescription drugs has bipartisan support among the general public (Figure 1), although there are long-standing concerns with this approach in terms of ensuring drug safety, and the idea is opposed by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) and the Canadian government.

Many studies have shown that people in the United States often pay more for their prescription drugs than in other developed countries, including Canada. One analysis of a broad range of drugs found that Canadian prices are 44% of those in the United States, and according to a KFF analysis , per capita spending on prescribed medicines was 42% higher in the United States than Canada. Canada’s drug prices are generally lower than those in the United States because the Canadian government has various mechanisms to lower the cost of prescription drugs.

The Inflation Reduction Act included many provisions that affected Medicare drug prices and out-of-pocket costs, but did not address drug prices for others, which has contributed to ongoing interest in adopting strategies, such as importation, to lower drug costs for other Americans.

These FAQs address questions related to prescription drug importation, including the current status of importation proposals, details of Florida’s importation program recently authorized by the FDA, and concerns and challenges with this approach.

1. How does the U.S. currently regulate the importation of prescription drugs from other countries?

Currently, the only type of legally imported FDA-approved drugs are those that are: 1) manufactured in foreign FDA-inspected facilities, intended for use by U.S. consumers, and imported into the U.S. by the drug manufacturer, and 2) those that are U.S.-approved and manufactured in the U.S., sent abroad, then imported back into the U.S. under rare circumstances such as for emergency medical purposes or in the case of product recalls.

Drug importation as part of efforts to lower drug prices in the U.S. takes a different form. In 2000, Congress enacted the Medicine Equity and Drug Safety (MEDS) Act , which added Section 804 to the FD&C Act, to allow pharmacists and wholesalers to import prescription drugs directly from certain industrialized countries, including Canada. The MEDS Act allows such importation only if the HHS Secretary certifies that the program: “poses no additional risk to the public’s health and safety,” and “results in a significant reduction in the cost of covered products to the American consumer.” The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA) amended Section 804 by specifying that wholesalers and pharmacists can only import prescription drugs from Canada, not other industrialized countries. The MMA also requires the HHS Secretary to issue regulations that would grant waivers to individuals to import drugs for personal use under certain circumstances.

In September 2020, the Trump Administration issued a final rule that created a new pathway, called the Section 804 Importation Program (SIP) pathway , for states and other entities to import drugs from Canada. To comply with the statutory requirements related to health and safety and cost savings, then-HHS Secretary Alex Azar certified that importation of prescription drugs poses no risk to public health and safety and would result in significant cost savings to the American consumers.

2. How did Florida gain approval to import drugs from Canada and what requirements must be met before the plan can be implemented?

In January 2024, the FDA under President Biden granted its approval to Florida’s state plan to import certain prescription drugs from Canada for a period of two years, stating that it met the requirements that importation would provide savings to consumers without sacrificing health and safety. When submitting its SIP application for approval, Florida was required to specify: the drugs it seeks to import; the foreign seller in Canada that would purchase the drug directly from its manufacturer; the importer in the U.S. that would buy the drug directly from the foreign seller in Canada; the re-labeler or re-packager of the drug itself that would ensure the drug meets all labeling requirements in the U.S.; the qualifying lab that would conduct testing of the drug for authenticity and degradation; and steps that would be taken by the SIP to ensure the supply chain is secure.

Even with FDA approval, Florida will need to meet  additional requirements  before the plan can be implemented. For example, before Florida is permitted to import any drugs from Canada, it will need to submit a  pre-import request  to the FDA for each drug it seeks to import, and it can only import that drug if the FDA approves that request. The state of Florida will also be required to conduct quality testing of the drugs and ensure that drug labels meet FDA standards.

3. Which drugs can be imported by Florida and other states under the SIP importation pathway?

Under the SIP pathway, only drugs that are currently marketed in the U.S. are eligible for importation. In addition, in order for a drug to eligible, it must also be approved by the Health Canada’s Health Products and Food Branch (HPFB) and have appropriate labeling to be marketed in Canada.

As under current law, certain types of drugs are excluded from the definition of a prescription drug eligible for importation including: controlled substances, biological products (including insulin), infused drugs, intravenously injected drugs, and inhaled drugs during surgery. Furthermore, drugs that are subject to risk evaluation and mitigation strategies (REMS), which are high-risk products with serious safety concerns, such as opioids, are not eligible for importation.

Florida seeks to initially import 14 drugs that treat HIV/AIDS, mental illness, prostate cancer, and urea cycle disorder. In Florida, imported drugs will only be available for people receiving services through certain state agencies and government programs, including people covered under Medicaid, people served through county health departments, and others residing in certain state facilities. The program does not extend to people with other types of insurance, such as employer insurance, or the uninsured.

4. What are the estimated savings associated with Florida’s drug importation plan?

According to Florida’s January 5, 2024 press release , the state’s plan will save the state up to $183 million in the first year of implementation, and based on Florida’s October 20, 2023  estimate  of  cost savings , these savings will accrue to the state’s Medicaid program. Whether any Floridians will pay lower out-of-pocket costs on imported drugs, or how much they are likely to save, is unclear.

Neither the September 2020 final rule that created the SIP pathway nor the FDA’s full final regulatory impact analysis provided an estimate of the expected savings. The final regulatory analysis noted that responses by other stakeholders, such as Canadian regulatory agencies and drug manufacturers, could impact the potential benefits of this program.

5. What are other states doing to implement drug importation proposals?

Many states are considering legislation that would facilitate drug importation from Canada. Several states, including Colorado , Vermont , Maine , New Mexico , New Hampshire , North Dakota , and Texas have enacted laws to establish importation programs and are actively pursuing the importation of prescription drugs from Canada.

  • Colorado: In February 2024, Colorado submitted a revised version of its SIP to the FDA. In its proposal, Colorado notes that it has been having difficulty negotiating with drug manufacturers in Canada to allow exportation of their drugs to the U.S. and has been looking for more guidance from the FDA on how to address this issue. Colorado seeks to import 24 drugs to treat blood clots, cystic fibrosis, respiratory illnesses, cancer, type 2 diabetes, HIV/AIDS, psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis. Of the drugs Colorado lists in its application, 4 overlap with those that are on Florida’s importation drug list.Colorado estimates the program will save $50.9 million in the first 3 years of implementation if all 24 eligible drugs are imported. Unlike the Florida analysis of savings, Colorado’s analysis assumes cost savings for individuals with commercial insurance, including employer-sponsored and individually purchased insurance. According to Colorado, Medicaid is not a targeted population because it “receives steep rebates for covered drugs, lower than what any importation program could provide,” and therefore, its estimates of savings do not include individuals covered by Medicaid, nor does it include Medicare or the uninsured. Colorado expects the nearly all of the savings (93.5%) will be passed onto consumers in the form of lower premiums though consumers will also see some savings in the form lower out-of-pocket expenses.
  • New Mexico: New Mexico submitted its SIP application in December 2020 for FDA approval and is still awaiting a response from the FDA.
  • New Hampshire: New Hampshire submitted a SIP proposal in August 2021, which was rejected by the FDA in November 2022 because the state had not identified a Foreign Seller nor provided other requested information. New Hampshire has not yet submitted a revised application.
  • Vermont: Vermont submitted a concept paper in November 2019, but it has not submitted a new importation proposal following the SIP pathway being finalized in September 2020.
  • Maine: Maine submitted an importation proposal in May 2020 for FDA approval, also prior to the SIP pathway being finalized, and has not submitted a new proposal.
  • North Dakota: North Dakota passed a bill in April 2021 that requires a study on the potential impacts of prescription drug importation.
  • Texas: In June 2023, Texas enacted legislation to establish an importation program and published a wholesale prescription drug importation report in December 2023 with research and recommendations to support implementation of the program.  

6. How does Canada view these importation programs?

When the SIP importation pathway was first proposed, the Government of Canada stated that it would be unable to meet the needs of the U.S. market without impacting access to medications for Canadians. The Canadian government also expressed concern that this policy would create drug shortages in Canada, and issued an order in November 2020 prohibiting the distribution of drugs that could cause or exacerbate a shortage. Therefore, it is possible that the Canadian government may impose barriers for importation to the U.S. Canadian law limits the sale of drugs outside of Canada that could create or worsen supply issues for Canadians. In response to the recent FDA action, Health Canada released a  statement  saying, “the Government of Canada is taking all necessary action to safeguard the drug supply and ensure Canadians have access to the prescription drugs they need” and added, “bulk importation will not provide an effective solution to the problem of high drug prices in the U.S.”

7. Under what circumstances can individuals legally import drugs from other countries, like Canada?

In most circumstances, it is illegal for individuals to import FDA-approved drugs from other countries for personal use. However, based on changes enacted by the MMA, personal importation of prescription drugs that have not been approved by the FDA for use in the U.S. is permitted on a case-by-case basis. Under this statutory authority, FDA has put out guidance that lays out certain circumstances where importation of non-FDA approved drugs for personal use might be allowed. For example, personal importation is generally allowed if the treatment is for a serious condition, there is no effective treatment available in the U.S., and there is no commercialization of the drug for U.S. residents. Typically, only a three-month supply is allowed, and individuals must confirm in writing that the drug is for personal use and provide information about the physician responsible for their treatment.

There appears to be little enforcement by the FDA of the ban against importing FDA-approved drugs for personal use. Even if the personal importation of a drug is technically illegal, current law directs the FDA to exercise discretion in permitting personal importation of drugs when the product is “clearly for personal use, and does not appear to present an unreasonable risk to the user,” which is reinforced in FDA guidelines .

  • Health Costs
  • Prescription Drugs
  • Affordability

Also of Interest

  • What to Know About the FDA’s Recent Decision to Allow Florida to Import Prescription Drugs from Canada

Sen. Katie Britt attempts to clean up her misleading State of the Union response

Alabama GOP Sen. Katie Britt on Sunday responded to allegations that her response to President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address was misleading.

The criticism centers on a story Britt told about a victim of human trafficking, which she implied happened during Biden’s tenure.

Britt spoke in her Thursday-night speech about visiting the U.S.-Mexico border in 2023 and speaking to this woman.

“She had been sex-trafficked by the cartels starting at age 12. She told me not just that she was raped every day, but how many times a day she was raped,” Britt said in her response to the State of the Union.

“We wouldn’t be OK with this happening in a Third World country. This is the United States of America, and it is past time, in my opinion, that we start acting like it,” she added. “President Biden’s border crisis is a disgrace.”

Shortly after the address, a viral social media post by journalist Jonathan Katz looked more closely at the story and noted that the trafficking did not happen during Biden’s presidency, or even in the United States; it happened during the administration of President George W. Bush, in Mexico.

On “Fox News Sunday,” Britt did not acknowledge making any mistake or leaving a wrong impression.

She was asked whether she meant to give the impression that the story she told about a victim of human trafficking happened during Biden’s tenure.

“No,” Britt answered, adding later: “I very clearly said I spoke to a woman who told me about when she was trafficked when she was 12, so I didn’t say a teenager. I didn’t say a young woman, a grown woman, a woman when she was trafficked when she was 12.”

She doubled down on her Thursday statement that Biden “didn’t just create this border crisis. He invited it with 94 executive actions in his first 100 days.”

“I very specifically said this is what President Biden did during his first 100 days. Minutes after coming into office he stopped all deportations, he halted construction of the border wall,” she said Sunday. (The Biden administration attempted to institute a 100-day pause on mass deportations after taking office, but that moratorium was later halted by a judge .)

Though Britt did not offer the victim’s name in her speech Thursday, a spokesperson for her office told The Washington Post that she was referring to Karla Jacinto Romero, a trafficking victims’ rights advocate who testified before Congress in 2015 about what happened to her as a girl.

Britt’s office did not respond to a request for comment from NBC News on Saturday.

The White House shot back at the Republican senator, accusing Britt of relying on “debunked lies” to attack Biden.

“Instead of telling more debunked lies to justify opposing the toughest bipartisan border legislation in modern history, Senator Britt should stop choosing human smugglers and fentanyl traffickers over our national security and the Border Patrol Union,” White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates said in a statement. “Like President Biden said in his State of the Union, ‘We have a simple choice: We can fight about fixing the border or we can fix it.’”

In her 2015 congressional testimony, Jacinto Romero told lawmakers through an interpreter, “For more than four years of my life from the age of 12 ... I fell prey to a professional pimp who, after three months of wooing and me treating me as a princess, propped me up on a corner and forced me to work the streets for his own gain. For years and years, I was coerced, intimidated, threatened, beaten, robbed of my children and emotionally and sexually violated time and time again.”

Jacinto Romero was 22 at the time of her testimony, meaning the experience she described began roughly a decade earlier.

Britt met Jacinto Romero in January 2023 during a trip to the Del Rio sector of the U.S.-Mexico border, where she was accompanied by Fox News contributor Sara Carter, former Mexican politician and victims advocate Rosa María de la Garza Ramírez, and GOP Sens. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi.

On an episode of “The Sara Carter Show” released the same day as the trip, Carter said she introduced Jacinto Romero to the senators, telling listeners, “She talked very vividly and candidly with lawmakers ... about what was happening to her, about people buying her.”

Republicans have long criticized Biden’s handling of the border, arguing that the president has been ineffective at stopping the rampant migrant crossings along the southern border. The Biden administration has countered that Congress has been unwilling to step up to the plate since the bipartisan border deal fell apart , and the president is reportedly considering taking executive action to deter migration.

courtesy visit letter to a politician

Alexandra Marquez is a politics reporter for NBC News.

DeWine’s endorsement, Trump’s visit suggest Ohio Senate race is up for grabs: Capitol Letter

  • Updated: Mar. 13, 2024, 8:19 a.m. |
  • Published: Mar. 13, 2024, 8:00 a.m.

Donald Trump, Mike DeWine

President Donald Trump stands with gubernatorial candidate Mike DeWine as he speaks during a rally, at the IX Center, in Cleveland, Monday, Nov. 5, 2018. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) AP

  • Andrew J. Tobias, cleveland.com

Rotunda Rumblings

Reading the tea leaves: A couple fresh news developments frame Ohio’s Republican U.S. Senate race as a political showdown between the state party’s traditional past and its Trump-dominated present. Andrew Tobias highlights how Ohio’s Republican Senate race is looking a week away from Election Day, in light of Gov. Mike DeWine’s endorsement of state Sen. Matt Dolan and Donald Trump’s announcement that he’ll be coming to Ohio to campaign for Bernie Moreno this weekend.

Critical race theories: Ohio’s March 19 primary election will feature several competitive and (often) super-contentious legislative races. Jeremy Pelzer breaks down what he sees as his top 10 Ohio House and Senate races to watch on election night.

Read more Ohio politics stories

  • Early voting for Ohio’s 2024 primary continues to surge, fueled by jump in GOP turnout
  • U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown fears AI election targeting of Black and brown voters
  • Yost adds Ohio to list of red states challenging SEC climate disclosure rule

Presidential proxies: A House Judiciary Committee hearing chaired by Ohio’s Jim Jordan on Tuesday provided an occasion for Congress members in both political parties to assail the opposite party’s November presidential standard bearer as both irresponsible and senile, Sabrina Eaton writes . It also triggered debate over the fairness of separate Justice Department probes into classified document mishandling by President Joe Biden and ex-President Donald Trump, who are likely to face off against each other in November’s presidential contest.

Bridging the gap: A plan to re-open the former streetcar level of Cleveland’s Veterans Memorial (Detroit-Superior) Bridge as a public thoroughfare for cyclists and pedestrians, and as a venue for events, programming, and recreation will get $7 million from the federal government. Sabrina Eaton reports that the project is among 132 projects in 40 states that will get a total of $3.3 billion in grants from programs set up by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act.

Steel yourself: Upset with a surge in steel imports from Mexico that he says is violating a 2019 trade agreement and threatening steelworkers jobs in Ohio and across the country, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown on Tuesday announced he’s introducing bipartisan legislation called the “ Stop Mexico’s Steel Surge Act ” to force a crackdown, Eaton reports. The Cleveland Democrat joined with Senators including Republicans JD Vance of Cincinnati and Tom Cotton of Arkansas to introduce legislation that would reinstate 232 tariffs on Mexican steel imports at 25%, for no less than a year, and give the president authority to impose additional quotas and tariffs on specific products if needed.

Borderline personalities : U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes of Akron on Tuesday joined more than a dozen of her Democratic colleagues at a Capitol Hill press conference to call for passage of border security legislation. “It will take all of us working together, Democrats and Republicans, to restore order at the border,” said Sykes, who recounted her recent visit to El Paso, where she met with Border Patrol officials, migrants, families, local nonprofit leaders “who all offered their unique perspectives about this crisis.”

Swing state studies: Julie Carr Smyth and Samantha Hendrickson of the Associated Press examine where Ohio’s political reputation lies ahead of the 2024 election after the state voted for abortion rights and marijuana legalization in November. “There’s a risk of overinterpreting the results from 2023, but the victories have encouraged Democrats defending a pivotal U.S. Senate seat this year,” they write.

Deep dive: Amber Hunt and Scott Wartman took a look at longshot Ohio congressional candidate Derek Myers’ long history of controversy that has seen him charged with assault and disorderly conduct, accused of pretending to be a police officer and getting banned from a relative’s funeral. “Taken in total, the incidents paint Myers as a confrontational and litigious man who sometimes has been praised for his aggressive style of journalism, though that same attribute has often landed him in contentious legal run-ins that have dragged on for years,” the story reads.

Full Disclosure

Five things we learned from the Feb. 13, 2024, financial disclosure of Mike Dovilla, a former Republican state representative who is running for the Ohio House of Representatives 17th District:

1. He listed two employers: the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation, a group that seeks to create and maintain “a strong, meaningful, and direct bond between citizens of northeast Ohio and the crew of USS Cleveland,” a naval ship, and the U.S. Navy.

2. Dovilla is CEO of the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation.

3. Dovilla or a close family member does business under the following companies: The Dovilla Group and The Grindstone Institute.

4. Dovilla serves on the board for the Northeast Ohio Classical Academy, a charter school in Fairlawn.

5. He disclosed eight investments worth at least $1,000 each, including state and federal pensions. He did not disclose any debts.

The countdown is on for the March primary, where Ohioans will decide which candidates should advance to the general election. With early voting underway, here are key dates to remember:

March 18: Absentee ballots returned in the primary must be postmarked via U.S. mail to be counted, so long as they’re received by boards of election by March 23.

March 19: Presidential Primary Election Day. Polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

On The Move

Sen. Ted Budd of North Carolina has endorsed Bernie Moreno for U.S. Senate.

Ex-state Rep. Mike Dovilla

Ex-state Rep. Candice Keller

Sydney Stone, legislative aide to state Rep. Justin Pizzulli

Straight from the Source

“I have an interest in leveraging every part of my influence for good in the way that I can. So, if that’s the way to do it, not saying the presidency, but if politics is a way that you can create meaningful change or another way outside of politics that we can do... [then maybe].”

Stephen Curry, the I’m Golden State Warriors star who was born in Akron and lost to LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2016 NBA Finals, in response to a semi-serious question from CBS News about whether he may run for president someday. Seven people born in Ohio previously have been elected president, which is why the state has been referred to as “The Mother of Presidents.”

Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free.

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Handmade Porcelain Painted With Brooklyn Blossoms

Plus: a collection of writings by a star of bohemian New York, a line of pajamas from a bed linen company — and more recommendations from T Magazine.

Dinnerware that Brings the Garden to the Table

Left, white dishes and vases painted with blue paint depicting floral branches. Right, a white plate and cups painted with circular blue flowers.

By Nicole DeMarco

For over 20 years, Melissa Goldstein worked as a magazine photo editor. While researching imagery, she developed a fascination with Scandinavian ceramics, 17th-century botanical illustrations and Japanese woodblock prints dating back to the 1500s. It wasn’t until she moved to Brooklyn and began rehabilitating the overgrown garden behind her brownstone that she began combining her interests: “[My brand MG by Hand] was the merging of my research, the garden and making things for my family,” Goldstein says of the fine English porcelain ceramics she now sells in select shops and online. In 2008, the artist began hand-making everyday dinnerware in her home studio in Carroll Gardens, decorating the pieces with floral motifs in a cobalt stain. Black irises, poppies and flowering quince from her garden adorned vases, shallow banchan dishes and scalloped serving trays. Her new Poppy and Cherry collections, which were fired in a gas kiln for 12 to 15 hours, channel Dutch Delftware while depicting local flora. “I have a wall that separates my garden from my neighbor’s, and I’ve interwoven quince in it,” Goldstein says. “I’m very into blooming trees.” From $65, mgbyhand.com .

A New Book Collects the Writings of Dorothy Dean, a Fixture of ’60s New York

By Dalya Benor

Dorothy Dean, the writer, socialite and Warhol Factory regular, was a central figure of bohemian New York in the ’60s and ’70s. But despite her circle of famed confidants, she died in relative obscurity in Boulder, Colo., in 1987. Nearly a decade later, the writer Hilton Als recounted Dean’s life story for The New Yorker : She was the first Black high school valedictorian at White Plains High School in New York, a graduate of both Radcliffe College and Harvard, the first female fact checker at The New Yorker, part of a clique of white gay men she called “the Lavender Brotherhood” and a tough-as-nails bouncer at the nightclub Max’s Kansas City. Now, a new book compiles a selection of Dean’s unpublished writing and letters along with her newsletter of biting film reviews called the “All-Lavender Cinema Courier.” Titled “Who Are You Dorothy Dean?,” the book is edited by the Paris-based filmmaker Anaïs Ngbanzo and published by the press she founded in 2020, Éditions 1989, which focuses on biographical books and artists’ writings. On March 19 at the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London, Ngbanzo will also bring Dean’s acerbic humor to the stage with “Dorothy,” a play adapted from her correspondences with the artist Rene Ricard, the model Edie Sedgwick and the music journalist Lisa Robinson. “Who Are You Dorothy Dean?,” about $23, editions1989.com .

Customizable Pajamas From the Linen Brand Matouk

By Caitie Kelly

For nearly 100 years, the linen company Matouk has focused on making Egyptian cotton bedding. Today, the company will launch its first clothing line with a collection of pajama sets made in Italy. Available in silky sateen and percale cotton, the long-sleeved sets will come in a selection of prints from the interiors company Schumacher, like the graphic, almost floral Levi, the polka-dot Celine and the botanical Pomegranate as well as solid colors and crisp white. All can be customized at the cuff or pocket with 20 monogram styles in 45 colors embroidered at Matouk’s factory in Fall River, Mass. You can also mix and match patterns, colors and trims; virtually any bedding fabric seen on their website can be turned into pajamas. “If there’s a special combination that a customer wants, we’ll happily make it,” says the creative director Mindy Matouk. “Some of my favorite moments have happened walking the factory floor and spotting a design that someone else dreamed up.” The collection is online now, and starting April 4 it will also be available at the brand’s newly opened House of Matouk on New York’s Upper East Side. From $475, matouk.com .

A Sound Artist Finds Inspiration in Feline Figurines

By Juan A. Ramírez

When the British sound artist Oliver Beer was preparing for his first solo show in the United States in 2019, the Metropolitan Museum of Art allowed him to test the acoustic quality of thousands of vessels in its collection. Beer had been placing microphones inside hollow objects and amplifying the sound within to make them “sing.” While at the Met, he became fascinated by an ancient Egyptian cosmetic jar in the shape of a cat. This discovery led to a feline obsession that culminated in a new exhibition opening this month at Almine Rech’s TriBeCa gallery. Beer has created a “cat orchestra” from 37 of the hundreds of jugs, teapots and vases he has collected. The figures range from the elegant (a floral ceramic from Cornwall) to the kitschy (an absinthe pitcher in the shape of a cat playing the mandolin), and were sourced from places as disparate as France and Thailand, with a few replicas of historical artifacts found in places like Benin or pre-Columbian Mexico. Viewers can take part in the performance by pressing the keys on a custom-built keyboard that activates the individually tuned containers whenever it’s not playing an original composition by the artist. For the exhibit, Beer also created 12 “resonance paintings” using another of his signature techniques: The artist lays a flat canvas over a speaker (in this case, hooked up to a microphone-rigged cat), whose vibrations shake ultrafine pigment into intricate shapes. “These are more complex than any of the ones I’ve done in the past,” says Beer. “I’ve got so much control now: I choose a different cat and change the note.” “ Resonance Paintings – Cat Orchestra” is on view at Almine Rech in TriBeCa, New York, from Mar. 14 through Apr. 27, alminerech.com .

A New Athleisure Line Inspired by ’80s Tracksuits and Clerical Garb

By Monica Mendal

“Athletes and clergy members have a lot in common,” says Louis Charles Aka, a Paris-based political adviser turned creative director. “They share a strong discipline and a mostly ascetic way of life, and they both wear distinctive uniforms.” Aka’s affinity for the clothes of both professions has influenced his brand, Clerica, which launched in December with a collection of T-shirts and tracksuits. Aka, who grew up in Ivory Coast before attending Catholic schools in Paris and Provence, France, recalls going to church with his grandmother and admiring the priests’ cassocks. His father, a financier, passed on to him a love of soccer, and the athletic uniforms of the ’80s and ’90s had an impact on Aka’s personal style. “All the key figures around whom I grew up, many of them politicians, spent their lives in suits from Monday to Friday and wore tailor-made tracksuits on the weekends,” he says. These inspirations came together in Clerica’s first release, which includes three styles of hand-painted T-shirts. One features an imaginary sports water called Liberia; another, a bowl of ginger-and-spinach soup (said to enhance an athlete’s performance); and a third, a woman’s face with a running track reflected in her sunglasses. The top and bottoms of a tracksuit are made of a silk blend with a white and navy colorway that nods to a clerical collar. From about $82, clerica-paris.com.

Upstate New York Design Shops Worth Seeking Out

By Janet Siroto

New York’s Hudson Valley is known for charming main streets jammed with cute shops, but in the northern reaches of the Catskills, some of the most compelling design stores are well off the beaten track. A.Therien , in Cairo, is a design studio sitting at a remote crossroad in a whitewashed barn next door to a butcher shop. Inside, the creative director Stephen Ellwood, the shop’s owner, offers a mix of vintage textiles, recently unearthed George Platt Lynes photographs, 19th-century stoneware and art books.

About an eight-minute drive away in Freehold, there’s the by-appointment-only Hort and Pott (short for Horticulture and Pottery), the live/work space of Todd Carr and Carter Harrington, where the décor changes dramatically by the season. In spring, that means an indoor-outdoor storefront filled with daffodils, fritillaria and branches of quince, forsythia and cherry to take home, as well as faux-bois concrete planters, slipware dishes and Easter-table-ready bud vases. Pidgin , in the teeny rural town of Oak Hill (population: 324), is home to the poet and collector Kostas Anagnopoulos and his shop stocked with globally sourced antiques and new finds. Among Anagnopoulos’s favorite items: a mother-of-pearl-encrusted bento box, pillows sewn from 100-year-old Portuguese grain sacks and olive oil from his family’s orchards in Greece.

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An Invitation-Only Night :   At New York’s Lesbian and Bisexual Backgammon League , painters, gallerists, collectors and assistants mingle and compete on a level playing field.

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IMAGES

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  5. How To Write A Courtesy Visit Letter To The Governor

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  23. Hunter Biden declines request to appear at public hearing

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