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| So, you're going to write your Congressman? Good idea. Make it a good letter |
People who think members of Congress pay little or no attention to constituent mail, are plain wrong. Concise, well
thought out personal letters are one of the most effective ways Americans have of influencing law-makers. But,
members of Congress get hundreds of letters and emails every day. Whether you choose to use the Postal Service or
email, here are some tips that will help your letter have impact.
Think Locally
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. Sending the same "cookie-cutter" message to every member of Congress may grab attention but rarely much
consideration.
Keep it Simple
Your letter should address a single topic or issue. Typed, one-page letters are best. Many PACs (Political Action
Committees) recommend a three-paragraph letter structured like this:
1. Say why you are writing and who you are. (If you want a response, you must include your name and address,
even when using email.)
2. Close by requesting the action you want taken: a vote for or against a bill, or change in general policy.
The best letters are courteous, to the point, and include specific supporting examples.
Addressing Members of Congress
To Your Senator:
The Honorable (full name)
Dear Senator:
To Your Representative:
The Honorable (full name)
Dear Representative:
The above addresses should be used in email messages, as well as those sent through the Postal Service.
thought out personal letters are one of the most effective ways Americans have of influencing law-makers. But,
members of Congress get hundreds of letters and emails every day. Whether you choose to use the Postal Service or
email, here are some tips that will help your letter have impact.
Think Locally
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. Sending the same "cookie-cutter" message to every member of Congress may grab attention but rarely much
consideration.
Keep it Simple
Your letter should address a single topic or issue. Typed, one-page letters are best. Many PACs (Political Action
Committees) recommend a three-paragraph letter structured like this:
1. Say why you are writing and who you are. (If you want a response, you must include your name and address,
even when using email.)
2. Close by requesting the action you want taken: a vote for or against a bill, or change in general policy.
The best letters are courteous, to the point, and include specific supporting examples.
Addressing Members of Congress
To Your Senator:
The Honorable (full name)
Dear Senator:
To Your Representative:
The Honorable (full name)
Dear Representative:
The above addresses should be used in email messages, as well as those sent through the Postal Service.
Here are some key things you should always and never do in writing to your elected
representatives.
1. Be courteous and respectful without "gushing."
2. Clearly and simply state the purpose of your letter. If it's about a certain bill, identify it correctly. If you need help
in finding the number of a bill, use the Thomas Legislative Information System www.thomas.gov.
3. Say who you are. Anonymous letters go nowhere. Even in email, include your correct name, address, phone
number and email address. If you don't include at least your name and address, you will not get a response.
4. State any professional credentials or personal experience you may have, especially those pertaining to the
subject of your letter.
5. Keep your letter short -- one page is best.
6. Use specific examples or evidence to support your position.
7. State what it is you want done or recommend a course of action.
8. Thank the member for taking the time to read your letter.
Never
1. Use vulgarity, profanity, or threats. The first two are just plain rude and the third one can get you a visit from the
Secret Service. Simply stated, don't let your passion get in the way of making your point,
2. Fail to include your name and address, even in email letters.
3. Demand a response. (ASK FOR A RESPONSE, not demand)
| LINKS |
| U.S. Supreme Court The Justices do not have email addresses, but they do read letters from citizens. |
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