Do candidates with an LOA have an advantage over other candidates for nomination?

[californiasteven]

I was just wondering if candidates with an LOA are preferred over regular applicants who have not received an LOA during the congressional nomination process. Thank you.

 

[NavyHoops]

No one can answer this question for your MOCs. The large majority of LOAs do get appointments. Does it mean these candidates have an advantage during the Nom process.? None of us know, as each MOC evaluates things differently. A candidate gets an LOA because they have an impressive record. A strong application speaks for itself and is the main advantage to a candidate during the Nom process. Remember someone with an LOA only needs a Nom, so they can be 10 of 10 on a slate and that gets them their Nom. This is something you can't control. Do well on your interview and amaze the board, it's the part you have control over.

 

[5Day]

I agree with Hoops that no one can answer your question other than the MOC and most LOA candidates are exceptional candidates, but I can give you another opinion. Most MOCs want to satisfy their constituents when they can. Many MOCs want to maximize the number of their constituents that go to SA. My DS MOC specifically asked if a candidate had a LOA and also said that if DS got one to make sure he let them know. He alluded to the fact that if he got a LOA he would be getting a Nom. Each MOC will be different. IMHO make sure your MOC knows you have a LOA. Remember, you only need one Nomination. If you are fortunate enough to get more than one, turn the others back and let the MOC reassign it to someone else.

 

[time2]

Agree with above, each MOC operates independently, so there is no way to generalize what they choose to do. Certainly what you do NOT want to do if you have an LOA is come across during the interview as arrogant/aloof or with some sense of entitlement regarding a NOM. Someone may have great stats on paper and come across in person in such a negative way that they turn off the interview team.

 

[californiasteven]

Thank you so much for your comments.