Write Letters to the Editor
Letter to the Editor Toolkit
Want to shape how your community thinks about a policy issue? Letters to the Editor (LTE) are a terrific way to do that. They make your voice heard, educate your neighbors, and can drive real change in your town, Augusta, and D.C. Your words and opinions matter; folks are much more likely to listen to a community member than a talking head.
7 Tips for Writing a Good Letter
- Focus on one specific issue and state it in your first sentence.
- Make each word matter. Most papers limit the number or words to 150-250. Check the paper’s word limit and stay within it.
- Make it personal and be yourself. Share a brief story related to the issue or candidate to establish an authentic voice and make your message memorable.
- Stick to short sentences, short paragraphs, and simple language to make it easy to understand.
- Use facts and stick to them: no hearsay, overstating or exaggerating a point.
- Be positive, respectful, and offer solutions/ideas whenever possible. No insulting or smearing opponents or opposing views.
- End with a call to action, e.g. “Be sure to vote for…” or “To find out more, go to this website…”
How to Submit Your LTE
- Find the paper’s Letters to the Editor submission form or email address on their website and follow their instructions.
- Many newspapers require LTE writers submit contact information with their letter. Phone numbers won’t be published; it is just to verify that you are the author.
- Only submit your letter to one paper at a time; if it doesn’t get accepted there, try another.
LTE Submission Forms
Maine Newspapers
Sample LTE #1
CANDIDATE X brings good experience to town council
Sample Letters to the Editor
I have known CANDIDATE X for a number of years. I was thrilled to learn she is running for Town Council. Her experience as a business owner will bring an important perspective to the council. As a business owner myself, I respect her responsible approach to finances and balancing a budget. We both know what it means to make a payroll and how to work through challenging times.
Knowing CANDIDATE X’S passion for our community, it doesn’t surprise me that she is willing to take on this important position in addition to the responsibilities of raising a family and running a business. I support her for Town Council, because she brings a much needed business perspective and a focus on creating more economic opportunities for our town.
YOUR NAME, YOUR TOWN
Sample LTE #2
Democrats are fighting hard for schools
In response to the article “Democrats Don’t Care About Education” published on January 21, I would like to correct the record. As a long-time educator and lifelong Democrat, I know that this party cares deeply about our schools.
Just this past year, Democrats in the Statehouse voted to increase funding by X amount. This increase would support A, B, and C. This is just one example of how Democrats are fighting for quality education.
This election season, I hope you will join me in voting Democrat. A vote for them is a vote for our schools, our teachers, our children, and our future.
YOUR NAME, YOUR TOWN
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