Legislators
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Reply using the MercurySaysPersonal responses.
Empathize by using similar words and concepts.
Use all the responses or only the most relevant.
Sample Message from a Constituent
You must support the new law on school bus safety. I have driven school buses for the last 15 years and have seen the results of the ongoing neglect. The current situation is terrible, and something must be done immediately. I will be following the debate and the vote in the House. I expect you will be strong in your support of the new law.
Below, see how to support their stance or to rebut it.
MercurySaysPersonal Response
Tell them you are poised, prepared, and ready to act. Say …
“This new law is overdue and those of us who support it feel ready to argue strongly for its adoption.”
Tell them that smart thinking is important. Say …
“Now is the time for smart thinking about how we can protect our children as they travel to and from school.”
Tell them that you feel sure you are on the right path. Say …
“We all know that this is a serious matter, and it is time to solve it once and for all.”
Tell them that you support strong, unwavering people. Say …
“I thank you for your work over the last 15 years and admire your determination to ensure that our children are safe.”
Tell them that the situation must be seen objectively. Say …
“With your experience, it is clear you have an excellent overview of the situation on the ground.”
Tell them that transparency is vital. Say …
“I appreciate that you have taken the time to bring your experience to my attention in such a clear and heart-felt manner.”
Tell them that you have made up your mind. Say …
“I think we both agree that the time for endless discussion is over. We must address this situation as quickly and effectively as possible.”
Tell them how they should feel about the situation. Say …
“Once this new law is passed, we will all breathe easier knowing that we have taken positive steps to protect our children.”
MercurySaysPersonal Response
Tell them you are prepared by your opposition is not. Say …
“There is no doubt that we need to improve child safety on school buses. However, the supporters of the current legislation before the House rushed its drafting because they were not ready. Consequently, this legislation is likely to fail.”
Tell them that smart thinking is lacking in this situation. Say …
“It is time to think more carefully about how we can permanently protect our children. Unfortunately, the sloppy wording of this proposed law leaves too many loopholes that will certainly render it ineffective.”
Tell them that you feel sure you are on the right path. Say …
“This is very serious matter, and it should be considered carefully rather than being used to grandstand in the media.”
Tell them that you support people who are strong enough to seek a permanent solutions. Say …
“I thank you for your work over the last 15 years and I share your determination to ensure that our children are safe. However, we must remain resolute in developing laws that work in the long term rather than offering flimsy short-term fixes.”
Tell them that the situation, viewed objectively, highlights big problems. Say …
“The only realistic path to a successful outcome involves combining practical knowledge, like yours, with sustainable, effective lawmaking. Unfortunately, with this issue, wise lawmaking is missing.”
Tell them that more plain talk is needed. Say …
“I appreciate that you have taken the time to bring your knowledge and concerns to my attention in such a clear and heartfelt manner. We need to hear more voices like yours from our community.“
Tell them that it is vital that everyone keep an open mind. Say …
“Without doubt, we must address this situation as quickly and effectively as possible. However, it is important that we keep an open mind so we can achieve the best result.”
Tell them how they should feel about the situation. Say …
“Only when an effective and robust law is enacted, will we be able to breathe easier knowing that our efforts to keep our children safe have been achieved. Unfortunately, the current, poorly drafted and ill-considered legislation does not provide any satisfaction.”
