The possibilities of political contact: insights for practitioners

Abstract: In an era of declining political trust, the relationship between citizens and their representatives has never been more critical. Many assume that trust is granted primarily to governments as a whole, leaving little room for individual politicians to make a difference. However, at Campaign Lab’s most recent academic series event featuring Professor Kate Dommett and Dr. James Weinberg from the University of Sheffield, compelling research was shared with politicians and campaigners that challenges this assumption. Their findings suggest that the way politicians engage with constituents—especially the quality of their communication—can meaningfully influence public trust and satisfaction.