COMMUNICATING BY PHONE

Telephone calls can be very useful for a constituent who wants to make his or her views known on a particular bill to elected officials. Telephone calls can be used when there isn't time for a letter. A phone call is more personal than an electronic message and usually has more impact.

You can reach federal legislators through the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at 202/224-3121, and ask to be connected with the legislator's office. Most U.S. Officials maintain offices in their home state as well. Please consult your local telephone directory for phone numbers for your federal, state and local elected officials.

Tips On Telephoning Your Legislator

  • Staff is important. Staff members usually handle calls to the legislator's office. If the legislator is not available, ask to speak to the staff person who handles your issue of interest.

  • Identify yourself as a constituent.

  • State your purpose. Request to leave a brief message with the legislator that states the purpose of your call, i.e., "Please tell Senator/Representative (name) that I support/oppose (S_____/HR_____)."

  • Give your reasons why you support or oppose the bill.

  • Ask for his or her position on the bill. Phone calls can be used to learn where the elected official stands on the issue and then the constituent (YOU!) can follow up with a letter.

  • Request a written response to your telephone call/message from the legislator if you like.

  • Do your homework before you call. You may end up talking to an aide who specializes in an issue. He/she may have some tough questions for you to answer as well. Remember, part of the aide's job is to answer constituent inquiries.

If you truly want to talk to the member rather than staff, get a group together and try to set up a prearranged conference call. A representative from your local phone company can help you make the arrangements. A question-and-answer session conducted from the privacy of an official's office is often convenient. But everyone should do their homework and know the arguments in opposition to as well as in support of their views. Remember, politicians debate issues with great skill; in a dialogue, they have as much an opportunity to persuade you as you have to persuade them.

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