By Vicki Trapp, AHWD, ASP, CRS, GRI, SRES, SRS, President
Greater Chattanooga Association of REALTORS®
In late June, I used this forum to answer the question, “What is the REALTOR® Party?” Yet, in light of recent support and endorsements, there continue to be questions and misgivings about the Association’s political activity. It is a greatly misunderstood program. With this follow-up column, my hope is that more REALTORS® and consumers will learn about and come to appreciate the value of the REALTOR® Party and have continued confidence in the entire process.
The ancient Greek statesman Pericles once said: “Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.” When legislatures throughout the country seek new revenue sources, their default position is usually a new tax or fee on property, or property transactions. That’s where REALTORS® come in to the picture.
REALTORS® at every level – national, state and local – are involved in politics. In addition to the national and each state association, there are more than 1,400 local associations. Whether it’s fighting burdensome regulations, protecting private property rights or promoting REALTOR® friendly legislation, at every level REALTOR® associations work hard to represent the real estate industry.
We identify, analyze and act on local, state and national issues that affect the real estate industry and private property owners. Now, more than ever, it is critical for REALTORS® to come together and speak with one voice about the stability a sound and dynamic real estate market brings to our communities. That voice is the REALTOR® Party.
REALTOR® Party members support the real estate industry in three ways – vote, act, invest. We encourage voting for candidates who support the REALTOR® Party and make the right decisions for the real estate industry. We help members and consumers stay connected to important real estate related issues and send out Calls for Action asking people to contact their elected officials on important legislative developments. We invest in the REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC).
RPAC funds are freely and voluntarily given by our REALTOR® members. RPAC contributions are not derived from membership dues and fees. RPAC contributions are directed to the campaign committees of approved candidates and do not go to pay any lobbyist at any level of government, nor the personal expenses of any candidate.
Locally, the Association has RPAC Trustees that meet and interview candidates for public offices in which we have a concern. These interviews are conducted at our offices by members who have freely sacrificed their time, and have been equally freely generous of their personal resources. The Trustees vote regarding support and endorsements of candidates. Before any public announcements are made, their recommendations are ratified (or not) by the Board of Directors and the state association’s RPAC Trustees. The process is open and transparent and fairly conducted. Because of our enviable reputation as thought leaders within the communities we serve, we are almost always sought out by candidates themselves. RPAC has made contributions to Democrats and Republicans alike, as well as many “Independent” candidates.
From the Chattanooga City Hall to the state General Assembly to the United States Capitol, our elected officials are making decisions that have a huge impact on the bottom line of REALTORS® and their customers. I encourage our members to become involved in civic life, to become knowledgeable about issues impacting their businesses and the real estate market, and to support initiatives that promote and ensure a healthy and sustainable real estate market. We are the REALTOR® Party.
For additional information, visit the Advocacy tab.