BACKGROUND and KEY MESSAGES:

This year’s 120 Champions and Defenders of Children include 40 senators and 80 representatives who have stepped forward to make “the best interests of children” a top priority in the Senate and House in the 118th Congress. They have all taken affirmative steps to positively address the problems facing children.

What makes the 120 Champions and Defenders unique is that they have repeatedly used their legislative roles to raise and move to the forefront those issues that are important for children. Champions consistently pursue policies and legislation that make children a priority across the full array of issue areas. Defenders more often than most consider and take action in support of the best interests of children in a number of votes and by sponsoring or cosponsoring of bills.

Others in Congress, who may just fall short in terms of points to qualify as a Champion or Defender, have also taken important votes or played a leadership role for children on some important aspects of policy that would either improve the lives of children or protect children from harm. We applaud these lawmakers for their work in those areas.

As Congress debates and sets the nation’s federal priorities on policy and budget matters, the Champions and Defenders cited in this report make children a “first focus” of their work in making public policy decisions. And as advocates for children, we want to take this opportunity to spotlight the 2024 Champions and Defenders of Children and express our gratitude and appreciation to them for their strong support for children

 Learn more and view the report at www.ffccscorecard.org.

SOCIAL MEDIA and HASHTAG USE:

Use #InvestInKids to participate in this promotional campaign for the report, available on www.ffccscorecard.org and the First Focus Campaign for Children site www.campaignforchildren.org.

Sample Language

Honored to be named a Defender of Children in the @Campaign4Kids scorecard. I’m going to continue fighting for policies and legislation that make children a priority in our nation. #InvestInKids

Proud to be named Defender of Children by @campaign4kids, but the work isn't over. Rising costs & threats to healthcare, education, & child nutrition mean we must keep fighting for every child. Join me in demanding Congress #InvestInKids & make their well-being a top priority.

Our children are in crisis & they deserve better. That's why I stood up as a Defender of Children in the 118th Congress. Let's all join @campaign4kids in holding every lawmakers accountable —ensuring every vote & every bill prioritizes a brighter future for all children. #InvestInKids

Child poverty isn't inevitable. It's a policy choice. That's why I'm honored to be named a Defender of Children by @campaign4kids & why I fought for policies that put kids first in the 118th Congress. Now, let's build on this progress & make every child's potential a reality. #InvestInKids

The future belongs to our children. Being named a Defender of Children by @campaign4kids is a responsibility I don't take lightly. In the 118th Congress, I fought for them. But the fight continues —let's work together to make children a true national priority. #InvestInKids

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SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE and OP-EDs:

If you would like assistance with placement or further customization, please contact First Focus VP of Media and Communications Michele Kayal at MicheleK@firstfocus.org