At this point, Session is (finally) winding down, you’re sleep-deprived and probably way over-caffeinated. Trust us, we get it. But here’s the deal: You need to have your post-Sine Die messaging ready to go.
The final weeks of Session are about positioning. Smart policy professionals know that how you close is just as important as how you started. Whether your bill passed, stalled or died, what you say next shapes the public narrative.
Sine Die isn’t when you start post-Session strategy – it’s when you hit send on it.
Here’s what we recommend heading into the legislative home stretch:
1. A bill signing doesn’t always signal victory.
Did you move the conversation? Gain a key hearing? Flip a vote? That’s impact! Talk about it. Frame your progress in a way that shows your momentum. Press coverage, coalition updates, digital content – now is the time to share them.
2. Thank your champions – and set the tone for the next chapter.
Gratitude matters, but don’t stop at “thank you.” Smart messaging includes what’s next, what remains unfinished and how you’ll keep fighting for your mission.
3. Control your story – or someone else will.
If things didn’t go your way, be honest. Then be strategic. Was there opposition you’ll need to engage next time? A missed opportunity you’ll learn from? Tell the truth and pair it with a plan.
4. Update your digital strategy now.
Post-Session graphics. Stakeholder appreciation. A LinkedIn post that positions your organization or cause as thoughtful, strategic and future-focused. This is not something to throw together after session – prep it now, while the strategy is still sharp.
5. Plan your press outreach early.
The best post-Session coverage is already teed up before Sine Die. Pre-drafted op-eds. Embargoed statements. Spokespeople on deck. The last week of Session is not the time to “circle back.” It’s the time to execute.
Here’s the bottom line: The strongest communications plans are developed before Sine Die – not as a post-Session scramble. So take an hour, solidify your message and prepare your team now. Because when the dust settles, the people who get heard are the ones who get ahead.
Finish loud. Finish clear. And if all else fails, call Mach 1.
