Writing Your Lawmakers
Tips and How-Tos
Basics: Well-thought-out personal letters do get attention from your legislators in Congress. Whether you choose the US Postal Service or email, here are some tips to help you write with impact:
- Think local – It’s best to send letters to the representative from your local congressional district or the senators from your state. This personalizes your letter to someone who depends on your vote. You do have clout. It’s been said that when a congressperson gets more than 10 letters on a subject, he/she not only pays attention, but will probably talk with other Congress members.
- Make it your voice – Cookie-cutter messages inundating every member of Congress may grab attention but rarely garner much consideration. Please be more rational than emotional and respectful rather than dismissive. Don’t give them the opportunity to easily disregard you and your message by appearing illogical or out of control. Courtesy counts.
- Make it brief, to the point – A good rule of thumb is three paragraphs on one page:
1. Introduce who you are and specifically why you are writing.
2. Provide detail to support your argument for or against the issue - specifically how this affects you and others - in sufficient detail with supporting examples.
3. Close by respectfully requesting action and thanking them for their time and consideration. - Understand the proper etiquette for addressing members of Congress-
To your Representative
The Honorable (full name)
(room #)(name) House Office Building
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
To your Senator
The Honorable (full name)
(room #) (name) Senate Office Building
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Salutations:
Dear Representative
Dear Senator
Dear Mr. Speaker
Dear Madam Speaker
Dear Mr. Chairman
Dear Madam Chairwoman
Additional Tips:
- Include your name; anonymous letters and emails go nowhere.
- Always include your address, even in emails.
- Clearly and simply state the purpose of your letter or email.
- Be courteous without gushing.
- Be critical with respect.
- State any professional credentials or experience you have.
- Limiting your correspondence to one page is always best.
- Use specific examples.
- State what you want done or recommend a course of action.
- Thank the legislator.
- Remember that vulgarity and threats are highly counterproductive. The latter may even get you a visit from the FBI.
- Last, enjoy the process! It’s part of what makes America great.