The reply is the whole point. Texting is the only mass channel where a voter can ask you something and get an answer in seconds. Turn that off and you've got an expensive flyer. Turn it on, staff it, and you've got the most persuasive conversation tool a campaign has.
Why two-way wins
A voter who texts back 'where do I vote?' or 'what's her stance on schools?' is engaged, and a fast, real answer converts that moment into turnout or support. The data on conversational texting is strong precisely because the back-and-forth builds trust no blast can.
What it takes to do it right
A two-way-capable number, volunteers or staff ready to respond, and quick answers to the common questions. Honor STOP and opt-outs in the same flow. If you can't staff replies at all, at least route them somewhere, dead-ending a voter's question is worse than not inviting it.
Frequently asked questions
Can people reply to campaign text messages?
Yes, if you send from a two-way number. And you should, replies are where texting outperforms every other channel, letting a voter ask a real question and get a real answer.
Should campaigns allow text replies?
Yes. Conversational, two-way texting builds trust and moves voters far better than one-way blasting. Just staff it, answer common questions fast, and honor STOP in the same flow.
Informational, not legal advice.
Keep reading: How do I get people to opt in to texts and How to grow a texting list that's actually yours.