The DeMarco Factor and the 6 Steps to Advocacy Success – a CPH Book Club Conversation

What does it really take to turn public will into political power? That was the focus of our latest CPH Book Club webinar, featuring a compelling conversation between public health champion Vinny DeMarco and longtime collaborator and our friend, Dr. Glenn Schneider of Johns Hopkins.

Together, they explored the real-world strategies behind Vinny’s decades of success advancing public health policy in Maryland. Their work has influenced tobacco and alcohol taxation, prescription drug pricing, gun safety laws, and more.

A Proven Framework: The 6 Steps to Public Health Advocacy

Vinny shared his 6-step model for advocacy, a practical approach that’s helped pass major public health legislation. These steps are outlined in more detail at healthcareforall.com/sixsteps, but here’s a quick summary:

1. Identify the Solution

Start with an evidence-based policy fix. Partner with public health experts to define the issue and the intervention.

2. Measure Support

Use polling and focus groups to test how people respond to the specific solution. Transition from theory to measurable public backing.

3. Build a Broad Coalition

Go beyond the public health community. Bring in faith leaders, business groups, unions, and community advocates to show unified support.

4. Use the Media

Earned media, social media, and paid ads all have a role. The goal is to raise awareness and drive urgency around your issue.

5. Make It an Election Issue

Ask candidates to take a public stance. Let voters know where their representatives stand, and make public health part of the campaign narrative.

6. Push for Policy and Follow Through

When legislation is introduced, stay engaged. Thank legislators who support the measure and help implement the new law effectively.

Key Takeaways for Public Health Professionals

Vinny and Glenn emphasized a few big lessons:

• Start early and build momentum before going to lawmakers.
• Understand the "Rule of Thirds" — some people are with you, some are against, and many are persuadable.
• Use both stories and statistics to connect emotionally and build credibility.
• Stay resilient. Advocacy is a long game, and setbacks are part of the process.

Vinny’s advice to future advocates? Follow your passion. Build coalitions. And remember that this work can be joyful, too.

📺 Watch the full conversation now on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/Znc347X4EF8

📖 You can sign up to join our book club at https://www.nbphe.org/cph-book-club/