A Statehouse Survival Guide

Hello from your newest Advocacy Department lobbyist! I survived my first session at the Statehouse, thanks to a lot of very strong coffee and some great colleagues showing me the ropes. For anyone who’s embarking on a journey into the advocacy world, here’s a few of my “insider trading” tips from my first three months in Columbia.

• Statehouse, Senate and House staff members are your best friends. From the Sargent at Arms to legislative staffers to members’ chiefs of staff and everyone in between, these people are the heartbeat of our legislature, and some of the funniest people in Columbia. Know them, love them.
• The real work happens at Hall’s. Seriously. On any given afternoon or evening, walk across Gervais Street and be prepared to find the bar and dining room full of lobbyists, elected officials and constituents working to get things done. (Also note this if you want to avoid anyone too – head down, walk fast).
• A “loss” isn’t a loss, at least not in the first year of session. With two years to accomplish priorities, a stalled bill or minor defeat isn’t the end. It’s just a forced re-group until January.
• Your champions don’t always represent your district or region. Make connections with ALL of the legislators from a variety of different regions within our state. You never know when someone’s passion for your issue is as strong as yours.
• Find a friend. The lobby can be an intimidating place, especially when you’re the new kid on the block. The connections among the lobbyists are incredible and are crucial to help gaining introductions from other groups that can help you carry your issue, and when meeting Representatives and Senators for the first time.

Bonus tips: Block heels are a must, Immaculate Consumption coffee is strong and close to the statehouse, always keep a water in your purse, strawberry-basil margaritas at Cantina 76 are essential when your bill stalls out at 3:30 on Wednesday, and there are a LOT of sidewalk grates to avoid in Columbia.