Working with elected officials may seem scary, but they truly enjoy hearing from youth advocates and learning about the topics they are passionate about. Young people can drive innovation in policy by injecting new ideas and solutions into the policy process.

Often, people think of elected officials as Senators, Representatives, and Congressmen and women; however, numerous local positions are elected as well. City council members, mayors, judges, superintendents, and sheriffs are all elected to their office.

There are so many opportunities to voice your opinions and concerns about youth tobacco prevention at the local and state level and building a relationship at these levels is easy and important. Youth advocacy efforts show a support network that can change policies or programs, highlight a public health issue like tobacco, provide solutions, and build public support.