The importance of a legislator’s staff can’t be overstated. As animal advocates, it’s important for us to develop a relationship with key staffers who have the ear of their bosses, are detail-oriented and aware of policy implications. Dan, who is Chief of Staff for Sen. Dayna Polehanki provided a wealth of information about how the legislature works, how to be a more effective advocate, and even how to get a job in the legislature. Since Michigan has term limits, the role of aides who make a career of serving in the legislature become the institutional memory.
Being an advocate is important … being straightforward, telling the whole story. Any time you can lay out what the opposition may say and counter it, and why it’s important. Building trust is important. I think folks who do animal rights in this state do an excellent job of this.
Dan Centers, Lunch + Legislation, June 5, 2023
Watch our interview with Dan here.