Why is it important to write to Congress?

Communicating with your representatives is an important part of being an active and responsible citizen. Your Representative and Senators have been elected to serve you, and they need to know what you, their constituent, believe are the important issues.

Should I write to my congressman or senator?

It’s usually best to send letters to the representative from your local congressional district or the senators from your state. Your vote helps elect them—or not—and that fact alone carries a lot of weight. It also helps personalize your letter.

How long does it take to hear back from a congressman?

Typically, an agency responds within 30 days to a congressional inquiry.

Can a citizen write a letter to Congress?

Answer: You can write, but you must do so as a private citizen, not in your capacity as a federal employee. What this means, when you enter your contact information, you must enter your personal mailing and e-mail addresses. Using federal government resources (such as your office mailing address, or your “.

Why would I get a letter from Congress?

Foundation confirms that handwritten, mailed letters are still the best way to communicate with your members of Congress. In fact, 96 percent of Capitol Hill staff reported in a survey that if their member of Congress had not reached a decision on an issue, personalized letters would influence his or her position.

How do you write a letter to an elected official?

Tips on Writing to Your Elected Officials

1. Keep it brief: Letters should never be longer than one page, and should be limited to one issue.
2. State Who You Are and What You Want Up Front: In the first paragraph, tell your legislators that you are a constituent and identify the issue about which you are writing.

Are congressional inquiries effective?

A servicemember can ask that a member of Congress inquire about an injustice or issue that seems unfair. Congressional inquiries work best when the command’s position is weak or embarrassing, especially where available documentary evidence of an error is strong and blame cannot be shifted to the service member.

How do you reach out to a senator?

1. Phone numbers are available on each state’s page or on your senator’s website.
2. Senators Suite & Telephone List (PDF)
3. A U.S. Capitol Switchboard operator can also connect you directly with the Senate office. ( 202) 224-3121.

Is congressman capitalized?

The words “congressman” and “congresswomen” can be used in subsequent references if they do not use the individual’s name, just as senator is used in references to members of the Senate. “Congressman” and “Congresswoman” should appear as capitalized formal titles only when they precede a name in a direct quotation.

How do I write a message to Congress?

Unique and moving messages are shared with the member of Congress. A summary of emails and letters received is given at an issue briefing before a vote. Write letters only about the issues of greatest importance to you. That way you don’t dilute your influence or your message. Each letter should be:

How do I write a letter to a US Representative?

In both houses of Congress, the representative’s official website will also have all the contact information you need. This includes the locations of their local offices. Your letter will be more effective if you address a single topic or issue rather than a variety of issues you may feel passionate about. Typed, one-page letters are best.

Why should I send a handwritten letter to my Congressman?

Emails from their constituents are mixed in with emails from fellow lawmakers and staff members and are thus easily overlooked or disregarded. In addition, taking the time to send a traditional, handwritten letter is the best way to show you “really care” about the issues you are addressing.

How do you thank a member of Congress for reading your letter?

Thank the member for taking the time to read your letter. Just because they represent the voters does not mean that members of Congress are subject to abuse or belittlement. As impassioned as you may be about an issue, your letter will be more effective if it’s written from a calm, logical perspective.