Why Engage in DC?

Why You Should Engage in DC

If you’ve been watching the news, you probably think the federal government struggles to get anything done. But like the ocean, DC’s chaotic surface waters conceal steady currents of activity that run deep.

Engaging in DC does not mean stepping into gridlock. Controversial bills that make headlines don’t represent the whole picture; most ocean-related bills pass with overwhelming bipartisan support.

Now is the time for the ocean community to lean into engagement with the federal government. Ocean and coastal issues are receiving increasing attention. Congress recently invested an unprecedented amount of money into ocean research, coastal resilience, and coastal communities. Federal agencies are looking for help as they implement new funding and ocean-related laws.

Decision makers need your input and ideas as they shape our country’s future. Navigating this world takes finesse, strategy, and genuine relationships. We’re here to help.

What does federal engagement look like?

Effective policy engagement involves more than calling your elected officials when you want something. To drive lasting change, you need to bring a clear, compelling message to the right people, at the right time, in the right way. Strong communication is the foundation of government relations, which is why ESP Advisors blends these services.

Policy engagement can take many shapes, including:

Identifying and cultivating champions
Building coalitions and growing caucuses
Meeting with key leaders
Educating policymakers through hearings, briefings, and events
Drafting or changing legislation
Helping good bills become law (or stopping bad ones)
Advocating for federal funding for important programs
Serving as a resource for White House leadership and executive orders
Developing agency partnerships and providing input on federal regulations

This work requires sustained, sophisticated effort, and the ability to successfully pivot with the eb and flow of the political tide. Let us take that off your plate.