When most people think about influencing policy, they picture the elected officials — the ones whose names are on the door. But behind those doors are the people who keep the trains running: staffers.
Legislative aides, agency staff, the governor’s policy team, and even staff in your local congressional district office all play a critical role in shaping priorities, drafting language, and deciding which calls get returned. In many cases, they know more about the details than their boss.
If you’re serious about advocacy, you need to see staffers as essential partners.
Why staffers matter:
- They control access. Want a meeting with the legislator or agency head? The staff decides if and when it happens.
- They know the details. Elected officials often focus on big-picture priorities. Staffers live in the weeds and understand the moving parts.
- They spot problems early. Because they’re in the room day-to-day, they can flag issues long before they’re public — and ensure your policy position is actually being considered.
- They remember who shows up. Consistent, respectful communication builds relationships that pay off when it matters.
- They can open federal doors locally. Congressional district offices are often the fastest route to getting an issue in front of a U.S. Senator or Representative — no D.C. trip required.
I still remember one woman who insisted on a meeting with a legislator about a appointed position when I was a staffer at the Statehouse. She was especially dismissive of me, but her opponent was respectful and kind. Guess who got the meeting? It wasn’t necessarily because I was miffed, but my boss didn’t want to meet with someone who was so dismissive. At BridgePSG, we know the value of these relationships. We help clients identify the right staff, understand their priorities, and build credibility that lasts beyond one bill or budget cycle.
Takeaway:
Ignore staffers, and you’re flying blind. Build trust with them, and you gain a guide inside the process. BridgePSG can help you make those connections strategically — turning staffers from gatekeepers into allies.