Advocacy Tips

Contacting Your Elected Official

Well thought-out and well written letters are one of the most effective ways that American's have to influence public officials. It is important to remember that elected officials receive hundreds of letters, faxes and emails every day. We have created some tips that will help your letter have the most impact on policy-makers.

Take advantage of technology

When contacting your elected officials, make the most of technology. If possible, use faxes or email when contacting your representative. These modes of communication are much faster because they aren't slowed by the rigourous security checks that postal mail must undergo. If you do not have access to the internet from your home, local public libraries typically provide internet access to patrons free of charge.

Contact the representative(s) from your area

Send correspondence to representatives from your district. It is your vote that helps to elect them (or not elect them) and therefore your concerns will carry the most weight with these individuals. It may also help to personalize your letter. Tell your representative (briefly) how the issues you are concerned about will directly affect you and your family.

Write about one issue at a time

Write about only one central issue in your letter. Be courteous and to the point. Use examples if appropriate and remember to cite the correct title and number if you are referencing a bill. Close your letter by requestion the action you want the representative to take. Limit the length of your letter to 3 or 4 paragraphs and be sure to include your name and address.

Remember, courteous letters carry the most weight. You can disagree with a representative or ask that he or she reconsider a position or vote in a particular way, but the use of profanity, vulgarity and threats do not belong in a letter to public officials. Do not let passion get in the way of making a strong and logical point.

Identifying Legislation

Cite these legislation identifiers when writing to members of Congress:

House Bills: "H.R._____"
House Resolutions: "H.RES._____"  
House Joint Resolutions: "H.J.RES._____"
Senate Bills: "S._____"
Senate Resolutions: "S.RES._____"
Senate Joint Resolutions: "S.J.RES._____"

Addressing Members of Congress

Use the following format when addressing your representatives. They should be used when sending email or postal mail.

To Your Senator:

The Honorable (full name)
Address

Dear Senator:

To Your Representative:

The Honorable (full name)
Address

Dear Representative:

To the Chairperson of a Committee or the Speaker of the House, address them as:

Dear Mr. Chairman
Dear Madam Chairwoman

Dear Mr. Speaker
Dear Madam Speaker