A few tips on e-mailing congress
return to Contact Congress

 

Some who study the behavior of congress are saying that Congress likes e-mail. It is much safer than letters that have been used for malevolent purposes.

Some groups may plug the system with massive e-mail campaigns. Such a campaign may prove that you can jam the system, but lessen the changes of getting your message through!
 

Here are some suggestions:

Use the links on the previous page to identify your congress people.

Check the web site for each one looking for a web-based comments area.

If they have made a provision for web-based comments, there is a good chance they are listening.
 

If you can not find such a link, then use the Contact Congress link.
There is no charge for e-mail.
 

Always identify yourself clearly by including your:
Name
Address
City, State, and ZIP code

This will help the legislator's staff identify that you are a constituent. Our Federal Representatives pay attention to constituents.
 

Even if you are using a template, change the message so that it is not identified as part of an issue "spampaign".
 

Tell your personal story.

Tell how the issue affects you.

demonstrate that you know the legislation and where it is in the process.

Be clear about what you expect from your representative.

Be clear about your values.

be non offensive!
be clear!
BE SHORT!