Chapter 1: New Congress, New Indivisible Strategy
With the new Democratic House, we finally get to switch from defense to going on offense against Trump. Chapter 1 describes the new tools at our disposal.
Section 1: What’s This New “Agenda-Setting Power” Thing?
With the majority in the House, Democrats now have “agenda-setting power.” This means they can choose what bills get a vote, but it doesn’t mean they can enact laws unilaterally. This section explains what this newfangled power is.
Section 2: Legislative Offense
Now that House Democrats can determine which bills get votes, there are two big opportunities to go on legislative offense in 2019 and 2020:
-
Messaging bills: Democrats can put forward legislation in stark contrast with Trump’s agenda, setting the stage for enactment in 2021.
-
Must-pass bills: Some things (e.g. budgets) have to pass; otherwise the world goes to hell. Democrats now can influence what goes into those bills.
Section 3: Offense Through Oversight and Investigations
For two years, Trump has operated with zero oversight from the Republican Congress. That’s over. House Democrats now have many ways to hold Trump accountable: Subpoena power, investigatory power, congressional-hearings power, and more! This section describes what your representative can do. Giddyup — it’s gonna be a wild ride.
Section 4: Don’t Forget About Defense
Republicans still control the Senate, and they’ll keep pushing Trump’s agenda. House Democrats will play a critical role in defending against further harm.
Chapter 2: Implementing the New Strategy Locally
How Indivisible groups can push elected officials to use their new powers.
Section 1: Make Good “Asks” to Make Your MoC Act
Members of Congress thrive on ambiguity. To get them to act, you need a specific, strategic, seeable “ask” for which you can hold them accountable.
Section 2: Organize Locally Using Tactics That Work
This section describes three ways to organize locally and effectively:
-
Use these 7 advocacy tactics: District office visits, phone calls, earned media, town halls, statewide Indivisible statements, letters to the editor, and op-eds.
-
Build your local strength: Expand your local Indivisible group, coordinate with other Indivisibles, and form partnerships across the progressive movement.
-
Lean on Indivisible National: We’re here to help. Find out about our resources and how we can help boost your power locally.
