This video, part of the LUNGevity Action Network advocacy webinar series, features Monica Popp, a founding partner at Marshall and Popp consultancy. Monica has over 15 years of policy experience, having worked in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and with the federal offices of former Governor Jeb Bush.  

She specializes in health policy and has contributed to bipartisan legislative accomplishments throughout her career. Monica is a strong supporter of LUNGevity, joining us for several years now to share her insights on policy and advocacy. 

Introduction and Current Landscape: 0:00-5:00 

The video opens with Monica’s introduction to the political landscape of 2025. She emphasizes the swift pace of the current administration’s actions, saying, “It has been less than one month since President Trump took office, and whether you voted for him, or you didn’t, there is certainly no argument that this administration moves very, very quickly.”  

She stresses the importance of advocates staying informed and adaptable, particularly in response to rapid changes in policy that can have broad and immediate impacts.  

“There are parts of the executive orders, and there are parts of the communication that are a bit broader than they have been used in the past,” Monica notes.  

Engaging with Lawmakers and Key Dates: 5:00-25:00 

Monica emphasizes that the most effective way for advocates to make an impact is through direct engagement with lawmakers, especially on crucial issues like cancer research. She particularly stresses the importance of building personal connections with representatives and their staff. 

She encourages advocates to stay actively involved year-round, particularly when their local representatives host public events.  

“Engage them in their district offices, engage them at rallies. Many members hold healthcare roundtables—it's critical to stay in touch with their offices and know when these events are happening,” she explains, highlighting the value of these in-person opportunities. 

Monica also underscores the significance of upcoming dates, such as key funding deadlines, when it comes to outreach to your representatives. 

Q&A and Practical Tips for Advocacy: 25:00-45:00 

Monica concludes the video by sharing actionable tips for advocates: 

• Stay informed: Key legislative deadlines are important moments to engage with lawmakers and push for lung cancer research funding.
• Build relationships: “Get to know your representatives early,” Monica advises. She stresses the importance of forming strong relationships with lawmakers, particularly those on committees that influence healthcare policy.
• Engage locally: Participate in town halls, district office hours, and rallies to ensure that healthcare issues are discussed and prioritized by your representatives.

How to Get Involved with the LUNGevity Action Network 

Ready to take action in the fight against lung cancer? The LUNGevity Action Network gives you the tools to make a real impact—advocating for policies and research funding that directly benefit people living with lung cancer.  

First, make sure you’re signed up to get email updates here. This way, you will know when upcoming webinars are announced and when healthcare advocates need to contact their legislators on timely issues. 

Right Now You Can... 

Support Ongoing Priorities 

Visit the Take Action page to easily email your legislators about important and timely issues for the lung cancer community, including research funding, telehealth access, and other legislative priorities. 

Watch the Advocacy 101 Video Series 

Watch these videos if you haven’t already: 

• Advocacy 101: Introduction to Advocacy with Jill Feldman
• Advocacy 101: What is Lung Cancer Research Advocacy?
• Advocacy 101: Patient and Self-Advocacy

Invite Friends and Build a Stronger Network 

Share the Action Network with your friends, family, and colleagues. The more voices we have, the stronger our impact when advocating for lung cancer priorities. Together, we can ensure that the voices of those affected by lung cancer are heard by decision-makers. 

Your voice matters. Join the LUNGevity Action Network today and help us push for the change we need. Whether it’s supporting research, improving patient access, or amplifying our message, every action counts.