Tips for Communicating with Elected Officials

Whether you decide to telephone, write or e-mail your elected officials, these next few tips will make the process a little easier.

If you decide to phone your elected official remember that calls are usually taken by a staff member. Ask to speak with the aide who handles the issues about which you wish to comment on.  After identifying yourself, tell the aide you would like to leave a brief message, such as: "Please tell (Representative's name) that I support or oppose (state the issue). You will also want to state reasons for your support or opposition to the bill. Ask for your representative's position on the bill. You may also request a written response to your telephone call.

The letter is the most popular choice of communication in dealing with elected officials. If you decide to write a letter, these suggestions will improve the effectiveness of the letter:

Generally, e-mailing an elected official follows the same guidelines as writing a letter. Just remember to properly address the elected official by The Honorable (full name).