Letters to the Editor Matter — and We Need More of Them
One of the most underused tools in grassroots activism is also one of the cheapest, easiest, and most effective: Letters to the Editor (LTEs).
For years, I’ve encouraged cannabis and hemp advocates across Wisconsin to write letters to their local newspapers because they work. They help shape public opinion, educate voters, influence elected officials, and keep issues in front of communities that may never see our social media posts. Many local lawmakers still closely monitor their hometown papers and public feedback sections.
The best part? It’s free.
A simple 150–300 word letter can:
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Reach thousands of local readers
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Normalize cannabis and hemp reform conversations
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Counter misinformation
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Support pending legislation
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Put pressure on elected officials
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Show newspapers there is real public support for reform
Over the years I’ve published and archived many letters to editors from myself and others discussing hemp, medical marijuana, legalization, public policy, economics, agriculture, and personal freedom. These letters helped keep reform discussions alive long before legalization became mainstream conversation in Wisconsin.
You can browse examples here:
Jay Selthofner Letters to the Editor Archive
One thing I’ve learned: consistency matters. Even if one letter does not create immediate change, repeated public engagement absolutely moves the needle over time.
I’d love to see WCIC members submitting more LTEs to local newspapers around Wisconsin — especially regarding:
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Saving Wisconsin hemp
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Sensible cannabis reform
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Overregulation and taxation concerns
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Medical access
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Small business impacts
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Agriculture and farming opportunities
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Consumer rights and public education
If anyone wants help brainstorming topics, editing drafts, or locating newspaper submission guidelines, feel free to ask. Let’s use every tool available to educate the public and keep reform moving forward.