An officeholder can text constituents, but the office list and the campaign list are not the same list. Official constituent communication (opted-in, informational) is fine and valuable. The moment that same list is used for campaign or fundraising messages, you're in the rules that separate governing from campaigning, which vary and have teeth.
The texting rules still apply
Even for official constituent updates, you need consent, you honor STOP, you stay in quiet hours. 'I'm the councilmember' doesn't exempt you from the medium's rules. Build the official list with clean opt-ins just as you would a campaign list.
The line you can't blur
Most jurisdictions bar using official resources, including constituent contact lists built on the public's dime, for campaign or fundraising purposes. Keep the lists, tools, and funding separate, and route campaign messaging through the campaign's consented list, not the office's. Confirm the specifics with counsel or your ethics office.
Frequently asked questions
Can a city council member or legislator text constituents?
Yes, with consent and under the normal texting rules (STOP, quiet hours). But official constituent lists generally can't be used for campaign or fundraising texts, keep official and campaign communications separate.
Can I use my official contact list for campaign texts?
Generally no, using official resources for campaign purposes is restricted in most jurisdictions. Build and use a separate consented campaign list. Confirm specifics with counsel or your ethics office.
Informational, not legal advice.
Keep reading: Do I need consent to text my volunteers and What is prior express written consent for texts.