After identifying yourself, tell the aide you would like to leave a brief message, such as: “Please tell Senator/Representative (Name) that I support/oppose (S.___/H.R.___).” Then state reasons for your support or opposition to the bill. Ask for your senators’ or representative’s position on the bill. You may also request a written response to your telephone call.
Write Congress
The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a congressional office. If you decide to write a letter, this list of helpful suggestions will improve the effectiveness of the letter:
- State the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph. If your letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it accordingly (e.g., House bill: H.R. ____, Senate bill: S.____);
- Be courteous and to the point and include key information, using examples to support your position; and
- Address only one issue in each letter. If possible, keep the letter to one page.
For more information on communicating with elected officials, and for tips on making that communication successful, contact Aiken Hackett at [email protected] or by phone at (404) 633-3777.