Letters to the Editor Guide

Letters to the editor (LTEs) are a great way to reach a wide audience in your community! As you draft your letter about why your organization is celebrating Vote Early Day, here are a few tips to keep in mind: 

• Most newspapers will have instructions on their website for how to submit a LTE through their website or via email. Make sure to provide your contact information so they can verify your identity. 

• Keep it short and to the point. Some newspapers will give specific guidelines about length, but in general try to stay under 150 words.

• Mention that you are a member of the community, and include your title or position if you have one. This will help enhance your credibility. 

• Focus on why voting early is the best way to make sure all voices in your community are heard. You can use our core messages for guidance here. 

• Make sure to share your personal story about why voting matters to you and what this election means for your community. Stories tend to be more impactful for potential voters than numbers and statistics. 

• At the end of your letter, give a call to action to urge your audience to vote early! We recommend you include a link to the Vote Early Day online voter tool so voters in your community can find out where, when, and how to cast their ballot ahead of Election Day. 

• See if you can work with the editor to get your letter printed on or before Vote Early Day (Tuesday, October 29).