20 questions to ask a politician

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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23-02-2025

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20 Essential Questions to Ask Your Local Politician

Finding yourself face-to-face with a local politician? Don't miss this opportunity to hold them accountable and understand their stance on crucial issues. This article provides 20 insightful questions to ask, empowering you to engage in a meaningful dialogue and make informed decisions during election season or beyond. These questions go beyond campaign slogans and delve into concrete policies and their potential impact on your community.

Understanding Their Record and Vision

1. What specific accomplishments are you most proud of during your time in office? (Focuses on past performance, avoids vague promises)
2. What are the biggest challenges facing our community, and what concrete steps will you take to address them? (Highlights problem-solving abilities and prioritization)
3. Can you provide specific examples of how you've worked across the aisle or with community groups to achieve positive results? (Assesses collaboration skills and community engagement)
4. How will you ensure transparency and accountability in your decision-making process? (Addresses crucial governance aspects)
5. What is your plan for addressing [specific local issue, e.g., traffic congestion, affordable housing]? (Tailors the discussion to local concerns)

Delving into Policy and Priorities

6. What is your position on [specific policy area, e.g., environmental protection, education reform]? (Directly addresses their stance on key issues)
7. How will you fund your proposed initiatives, and what potential impacts will they have on the local budget? (Explores financial responsibility and potential consequences)
8. What specific measures will you implement to improve [specific public service, e.g., public transportation, healthcare access]? (Focuses on practical solutions and improvements)
9. How will you ensure that the needs of all residents, including marginalized communities, are considered in your policies? (Addresses inclusivity and equity)
10. What is your long-term vision for our community, and how will you work towards achieving it? (Gauges their strategic thinking and future plans)

Assessing Their Approach and Character

11. How will you respond to criticism and dissenting opinions? (Evaluates their ability to handle conflict and feedback)
12. What steps will you take to prevent conflicts of interest? (Addresses ethical considerations and transparency)
13. How do you plan to stay connected with your constituents and solicit their input on important decisions? (Examines their commitment to community engagement)
14. What are your priorities for improving local infrastructure? (Focuses on essential services and community development)
15. How do you plan to support small businesses and local entrepreneurs? (Addresses economic development and community support)

Looking Ahead: Future Plans & Accountability

16. What specific metrics will you use to measure your success in office? (Focuses on tangible results and accountability)
17. How will you address the issue of [specific current event affecting the community]? (Assesses their responsiveness and problem-solving skills)
18. What is your stance on campaign finance reform? (Addresses transparency and potential influence)
19. If elected/re-elected, what is your plan for addressing potential budget shortfalls? (Examines their financial management skills)
20. What is your commitment to ongoing education and professional development to stay informed on relevant issues? (Highlights their commitment to continuous improvement and learning)

By asking these questions, you can gain valuable insights into a politician's character, experience, and plans for your community. Remember to listen carefully to their answers and follow up on any unclear or vague responses. Your participation in this crucial process helps shape the future of your community.