The Power of Legislative Perseverance Through SPAC

The Power of Legislative Perseverance Through SPAC
By Ivan D. Butts
NAPS National President

In the intricate web of American democracy where political advocacy and influence intersect, few tools wield as much power as political action committees (PACs). These entities, formed to raise and spend money to influence elections and policy decisions, embody the essence of legislative perseverance. By strategically harnessing resources and maintaining relentless commitment to their causes, PACs have become indispensable players in shaping public policy and ensuring diverse voices are heard in the legislative process.

The NAPS Supervisors’ Political Action Committee (SPAC) serves as a bridge between our association’s members and the policymakers who represent them. In an era where political campaigns are increasingly expensive and legislative agendas often are influenced by well-funded interests, SPAC provides a platform for NAPS to pool resources and amplify our message.

Legislative change rarely is achieved overnight. The power of SPAC lies in our ability to sustain efforts over the long haul, navigating setbacks in shifting political landscapes and evolving public opinion. This perseverance was on full display Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, when your NAPS resident officers had the privilege of attending the White House signing of the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023.

There are some keys to this success in which we all shared a part. SPAC has excelled in uniting stakeholders with shared goals. We are thankful for the relationship with the Federal-Postal Coalition. The coalition’s Legislative Committee, led by NAPS’ own Bruce Moyer at one time, now is led by Katie Maddocks—Legislative & Political director for the National Postal Mail Handlers Union and our former legislative director. The coalition’s Political Committee is co-chaired by Bob Levi, our Legislative & Political Affairs director, and Maram Abdelhamid, National Treasury Employees Union Political Affairs and PAC director.

By forging alliances across federal and postal groups, we strengthen our advocacy efforts, creating a unified front that can withstand political opposition and setbacks. Over time, these coalitions build momentum, fostering public awareness and support for their causes.

Through strategic investments in grassroots campaigns, advertising and public education, SPAC ensures our legislative priorities remain visible by committing to our annual grassroots effort in Washington, DC, with our Legislative Training Seminar. This event helps us keep important issues in the public eye and provides influence to lawmakers to address them, even when immediate progress is not achieved. As a reminder, this year’s LTS will be April 6-9.

NAPS SPAC has cultivated long-term relationships with policymakers, contributing to campaigns, organizing fundraisers and providing expert insights on critical issues. These connections have enabled NAPS to advocate effectively, influencing legislative outcomes over time.

The power of legislative perseverance through our SPAC underscores the enduring importance of commitment, strategy and collaboration in shaping policy. In a democracy where the wheels of change often turn slowly, SPAC exemplifies how sustained efforts can overcome obstacles, amplify voices and drive meaningful progress.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the role of SPAC in championing causes and influencing legislation remains a testament to the resilience and determination required to navigate the challenges of governance. In the end, legislative perseverance is not just about achieving specific goals; it is about ensuring the democratic process remains dynamic, inclusive and responsive to the needs of democracy.

Let’s remain SPAC strong!

In solidarity…