How to Build Power and Secure Policy Wins with a ‘Lame Duck’ Government

As we navigate the now exciting political landscape of 2024, it’s important to remember the unique challenges and opportunities presented by upcoming lame-duck government sessions. 

What is a lame-duck session for the government? It’s a session of government that takes place after the election for the next sitting government has been held but before the current government has reached the end of its term.

So for example, in the upcoming US federal election, the lame duck session will likely begin right after the November 5th, 2024 elections and continue until January 3rd, 2025.

This period, typically marked by a flurry of legislative activity, is crucial for pushing through key policy initiatives important to our communities.

Below, I outline actionable strategies, backed by insights from our subscribers and recent reports, to help social good campaigners build grassroots power and secure policy wins during this pivotal time.

Strategic Timing and Opportunities

Timing is everything during the lame-duck session. The political dynamics of 2024, particularly with outgoing members and the transition of power, create a unique window for advocacy. Understanding the legislative calendar and aligning advocacy efforts with key dates can significantly enhance the effectiveness of campaigns. This period often sees a rush to pass unfinished business, making it an opportune moment to push for policy changes.

Pro tip: Plural Policy is an accessible legislative tracking tool to keep track of legislation under consideration. 

Leveraging Digital Advocacy Tools

The advent of digital advocacy tools has revolutionized how we engage with policymakers and mobilize supporters. Platforms like New/Mode enable advocates to create targeted messaging campaigns that can reach lawmakers directly. It’s important to connect supporters with legislators through multiple channels, such as getting supporters to email and call their representatives and/or get their voices in local newspapers. Of course, avoid ineffective tactics like fake petitions. 

Building Relationships and Coalitions

Building relationships with both outgoing and incoming members of government is essential. Early engagement with new members and maintaining connections with those leaving office are crucial strategies.

Additionally, forming broad networked coalitions and partnerships can amplify advocacy efforts. By working with like-minded organizations, advocates can pool resources and create a more powerful, unified voice. This approach is particularly practical during the lame duck session when legislative priorities are in flux.

Unified Messaging and Consistency

Maintaining a clear and unwavering focus on core goals is crucial for successful campaigns. Consistent messaging is critical to engaging and mobilizing grassroots supporters. Advocacy campaigners should stay true to their priorities and not be swayed by external activities. 

Evidence-Based Advocacy

Utilizing data and evidence to support advocacy efforts can significantly enhance credibility and impact. Presenting lawmakers with concrete data and well-researched arguments to back policy proposals strengthens the case for policy change and demonstrates the advocate's expertise and commitment to the issue.

Looking forward

As we look toward the 2024 lame-duck session, it is clear that a combination of strategic timing, digital tools, relationship-building, consistent messaging, and evidence-based advocacy will be crucial for securing policy wins.

While particularly relevant for 2024, these principles are timeless and can be applied to any advocacy campaign, regardless of the political climate or country. This window of opportunity can be used to make substantive policy changes and, crucially, leveraged to build power for the months and years ahead. 

Give New/Mode a try for free if you're ready to utilize effective digital advocacy tactics.