With August “recess” behind us and Congress back in Washington, it is a good time to look back at activity that occurs in the home states and districts of members of Congress each summer. While many members hold events with their constituents throughout the year, August recess provides a dedicated period of time for elected officials to travel across their state or district and is a great opportunity for companies to invite their representatives to visit. As job creators who have invested in the local market, visiting with local businesses provides a perfect place for members not only to meet voters but also to hear from job creators. This is also a great opportunity for companies to tell their story and seek assistance on any issues affecting growth and/or productivity.
Permobil, a global manufacturer of complex rehab technology, is a great example of how having these relationships can lead to success. The company often hosts state and federal elected officials and their staff in their facilities throughout the country. Most recently, they welcomed Tennessee State Representative Clark Boyd and U.S. Congressman John Rose at their North American headquarters in Lebanon, Tennessee. Company leadership gave a tour of the manufacturing operation and spent time afterward discussing the challenges they face.
Our team at Bridge Public Affairs was glad to help coordinate these visits and participate in the discussions. For Permobil, maintaining these relationships is important because many of the individuals they serve are dependent on government health care programs and decisions by policy makers – good or bad – will affect their customers. Permobil’s continued engagement has led directly to legislative and policy victories in both Washington and Nashville. These successes demonstrate the importance of engagement and the need for continued investment in these relationships.
Do you or the company you work for have a relationship with your elected officials? If not, our team at Bridge Public Affairs can help you build an engagement strategy. Every sector of our economy is affected by the decisions made in Washington and at state capitals across the country. Let us help you build relationships and gain allies to help your business succeed.