Calling Elected Officials

Get in touch with your representative however you can! Photo by Amanda Maclean.

Calling your elected officials is a great way to make your voice heard, literally! Don't expect to speak to your actual senator or representative on the phone; instead you'll most likely speak with a member of his or her staff.

When you call

• Ask to speak with the staff member who handles the issue or bill in which you have an interest.
• Identify yourself (make sure you tell them if you are a constituent), and identify the issue with which you are concerned. If it's a specific bill, identify the bill by its S. or H.R. number.
• Briefly state your reason for calling. For instance, "I'd like to know Representative X's position on H.R. 1100." Or, "I'd like Senator Y to know that I strongly oppose S. 234 because ______."
• If you would like a reply from your congressperson, let the staff member know.
• Keep the call short and courteous. Remember to thank the staff member for his or her time.