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For the People Act

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Though most Americans agree it’s wrong to punish someone for sharing their viewpoint (as free speech is highly valued and continually fought for), House Democrats are trying to codify this type of discrimination into law. 

The euphemistically named “For the People Act” will make its debut on the House floor this week, and if passed will expose the names, addresses, and other personal information of every American who generously donates money to an organization, cause, or campaign. 

Though most Americans agree it’s wrong to punish someone for sharing their viewpoint (as free speech is highly valued and continually fought for), House Democrats are trying to codify this type of discrimination into law. 

While the name of the bill (“For the People”) suggests helpful legislation to stop corruption and expose how money is spent in politics, it actually does something far more dangerous — it makes every American a target.

For this reason, it’s important to speak up and out about it. Here are a few suggestions:  

  • A great line to use: “Transparency is for government, privacy is for people.”
  • You can emphasize that you’re actually fighting for the people they claim to be fighting for: “No American should be forced to have their name put on a list for simply making a donation.”
  • And if you want to make a comparison: “Passage of this legislation is like asking every American who donates money to wear a bumper sticker for the cause.”   

Every day we hear stories about discrimination on social media, violence on college campuses, and harassment on street corners if you openly support a cause someone deems “wrong.” Allowing passage of the “For the People Act” will only increase the frequency of intimidation for those who choose to show support with their pocketbook.

B²: Tax Day

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Tax Day is the worst.

It stands as a reminder of how much money we’ve given the government in the last 365 days (interest free!) thanks to a complicated code no one understands.

And yet, our debt is hovering dangerously close to $20 trillion. TWENTY TRILLION DOLLARS.

Everyone knows tax reform needs to happen, but the debate remains over when and how. As Capitol Hill prepares to have this tough conversation, the media is ready and waiting to ask you about it. Do you know how to talk taxes and tax reform?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here’s this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “You keep talking about cutting taxes, but we’re $20 trillion in debt. Shouldn’t we raise taxes on the wealthy in order to pay off our debt?”

(Option #1) B²: “Rather than asking Americans to pay more, Congress should be asking themselves how they can spend less. <Insert talking point>.”

(Option #2) B²: “Washington has a spending problem, not a revenue problem. <Insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, remember that it’s important to define the problem in order to fix it; let’s not get lost in the wonky weeds. Focus the conversation on spending and throw out a couple examples of absurd expenditures to prove your point. Most people will agree that simplification and transparency must be upheld as goals one and two in the tax reform process…

B²: “Are you lying?”

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When you hear “honesty,” “truth,” “transparency,” it’s doubtful you think of Hillary Clinton. Especially after that recent CBS interview.

Her less-than-great response to Scott Pelley’s truth-telling question played into the hands of the voters who desire honesty…and don’t believe Hillary is – 56% of respondents in a recent YouGov poll said they don’t believe Hillary is honest or trustworthy.

While DMG has strict standards of only working with people who do tell the truth, we understand that some issues are sensitive and can’t be fully discussed in the media. The need to remain confidential can lead to objectionable questions that are hard to navigate and easily put you in the position of making an uh-oh statement like, “I’m not lying.”

Do you know how to stick to your talking points, maintain confidentiality (if the situation demands it), and not be accused of lying?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Are you lying?”

B²: “Not at all. I’m being straight with the American people because it’s of utmost importance that <insert talking point>…”

Wherever you take the conversation next, don’t start by saying what you aren’t. Start with declarative statements about your honesty/transparency and then B² to the talking point that you wish to deliver.

The lying “gotcha” question can trip up even the most seasoned candidate resulting in a social media frenzy. Don’t let it happen to you!