Communicating with Congress

 

There are many ways for a citizen to communicate with their Members of Congress: phone, mail, fax, e‑mail, or in person. Here are some sources to help you identify and then connect with your House Representative or your Senators.

 

Identifying Your Members of Congress:

Find your Senators: http://www.senate.gov

Find your House Representative: http:// www.house.gov

 

Making Contact by Phone:

Senate switchboard: 202-224-3121

House switchboard: 202-225-3121

 

Making Contact by Mail:

Write to any member of the Senate at this address:

The Honorable (full name)

U.S. Senate

Washington, DC 20510

 

Write to any member of the House at this address:

The Honorable (full name)

U.S. House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515

 

Making Contact by E-mail:

For the Senate: http://www.senate.gov/contacting/index.cfm

For the House: http://www.house.gov/writerep/wyrfaqs.htm#listrep

 

Making Contact in Person:

Members of Congress have offices both in Washington, DC, and in their state/district. To schedule an appointment or to learn times of local public meetings, call or e-mail.

 

Communication Tips:

1. State the purpose of your contact clearly. If commenting on a specific piece of legislation, give its bill number.

2. Be brief.

3. Lawmakers understand that people are often upset, but try to be courteous.

4. Use your own words to explain how the issue affects you or your family personally.

5. Be as accurate as possible. Getting your facts straight is essential.

6. Keep in mind that Members of Congress really do want to hear your views.