A Practical Guide to Attending Political Fundraisers

When attending a fundraiser on behalf of the PICPA, there are some practical guidelines to follow to ensure that your time is well spent. Based upon law, ethics, and common sense, the following dos and don'ts will help maximize your impact when attending fundraising events.

Do

• A fundraiser is primarily a social function. Take advantage of this setting to get to know your legislator better. If you went to the same school or church, have kids on the same teams, etc., mention the connection to help the legislator more easily remember you.
  
• Do your homework before you go. If a legislator or their staff member asks what issues are important to the accounting profession, be prepared to respond in a brief, concise manner. The PICPA will provide background information on the legislator and a brief synopsis of issues being advocated by the PICPA at your request.
  
• Understand all sides of an issue. To speak intelligently about an issue, you must be able to counter opponents' arguments if necessary.
  
• A fundraiser is not an appropriate place to ask a legislator to take action on an issue. Such discussions should take place at his/her office or over the telephone.
  
• Follow through with any request that a legislator makes in a timely manner. If you are unable to meet the request, let the legislator know why.
  
• Send or e-mail a short thank-you note after the event. It is a great way to reinforce your relationship and let the legislator know you enjoyed attending the event.
  
• Copy the PICPA's Government Relations Team on all correspondence. This helps the staff know what issues were discussed as well as what topics are important to the legislator.

Don't

• Do not attempt to threaten or bribe legislators - even through insinuation. Promises to vote for or contribute to a legislator's opponent will only ensure that he or she will not support the accounting profession on the issue at hand -- or any other issue.
• Do not use the fundraiser as an opportunity to lobby the legislator. Remember it is a social event. He or she may not want to talk shop outside of the office.