Write a Letter to the Editor

Decide, before you even begin to write, what you want a voter to think, say, or do after they’ve read your letter. Is it a call to volunteer for the campaign? Is it to persuade people to vote for Cinde over her opponent? Do you want to explain the work she has done on the Executive Council so that others talk about her accomplishments?Once you’ve figured out your goal, make sure the way you write your letter always connects back to it!

Don’t be afraid to quote specific numbers and key facts about Cinde or her work. That being said, LTEs shouldn’t be lengthy, policy positions — but it’s always great to use facts and specifics to inform your argument. Just make sure they’re accurate!Avoid obscure words and try to break down complex ideas into simple ones. If your letter is difficult to understand, it is less likely to be published!

By talking about why Cinde Warmington, her accomplishments, or the issues she cares about are important to you, your letter will connect to more readers. Use your personal story to push the letter forward; insert your personality into the writing; and explain, from a local angle, why an issue at the Executive Council is important to your community!

In order to make sure newspapers actually publish your hard work, we recommend the following format:

• Write a title for the LTE, in bold, as the first line
• After your last paragraph, “sign” your letter by putting your First Name & Last Name on one line and then your Town/City on a second line
• 250-300 words
• Write an interesting first line to hook readers in
• Highlight powerful lines by making them their own paragraph
• Maintain a consistent writing style throughout

Before you publish, make sure to read your letter out loud to edit any mistakes. Then, the most important thing: SUBMIT YOUR LETTER!