The most important reason I enjoy political tweets is because I learn directly from the legislator about his or her policy positions. For example, my favorite tweets come from Representative Pete Hoekstra (R-MI). Regardless of our difference of opinion, this is one legislator who just gets it. Rep. Hoekstra uses his tweets to present his opinions on a variety of legislative issues, not just to pimp upcoming speaking events. Understanding where a politician is really coming from on the issue can help me be a more effective advocate.

As more and more legislators join twitter, I hope organizations (corporate, trade associations, non-profits, and labor unions) jump on the bandwagon. In a political environment that values innovation in technology more than ever, it is wise for an organization’s Government Relations team to recruit and engage employees and/or members through twitter. Is there a better way to keep key executives back in the home office up-to-date on pending legislation? A few well-written tweets while watching C-Span can add value and raise your department’s visibility with key members of your organization.

Holly Pitt Young is the Associate Managing Partner at Watts Partners.

]]> http://www.kstreetcafe.com/if-brevity-is-the-soul-of-wit-twitter-is-hilarious/feed/ 9