With the elections coming up on Nov. 7, the lawn signs, the literature and the ads are popping up everywhere. The challenge for everyone involved in environmental protection is to cut through the hype and the glossy brochures and pick people who reflect our values.

Making the right choice is not easy. Everybody says they are for clean water, clean air and healthy children—but who is going to stand up and fight for those things? The surest way to find out is to talk to them. Attend a “meet the candidate” night. Ask them questions, listen carefully to the answers and then verify. What is their past voting record? What issues have they championed? What about their past indicates they are committed to your issue and your values? Does it sound as if they are familiar with key issues or just faking it?

Your access to these people will never be better. Your ability to influence their ideas and priorities will never be greater. Once candidates go to Lansing, they are flooded by meetings with interest groups from across the state. But before they get caught up in the Lansing whirlwind, you can make a permanent impression by demanding they address important issues.

As the election draws close, now is the time to meet the candidates, build a relationship and express to them what is important to you.