In the context of unpredictable events and ever-changing informational policy terrain, the ACF (Sabatier & Jenkins-Smith, 1993) seeks to empirically explain the dynamic processes of policy learning, policy change, and coalition formation and change by focusing the researchers' attention on policy subsystems and the coaUtions that occupy those subsystems. It is our contention that empirical approaches to narrative such as the NPF can better illuminate specific facets of the policy process underspecified by the ACF, particularly when combined with the ACF's already well-defined and validated parameters. SpecificaUy, the socially constructed elements of pubUc policy - those elements to which relevant actors ascribe meaning - are best captured through an empirical investigation of the stories coalitions strategically deploy. Stakeholders use words, images, and symbols to strategicaUy craft policynarratives to resonate with the public, relevant stakeholders, and governmental decision makers, with the aim of producing a winning coalition. We contend that the inclusion of policy narratives as a causal variable in the policy change process is not only helpful but also critical.