Tips for Contacting Elected Officials

How do I find out who my elected officials are?

Go to our Find Your Elected Officials page for our printable Guide to Elected Officials and links to where you can search for yours.

Should I call or write my official?

Calling is generally the most effective way to get in touch with your officials because it is more likely you will get the chance to speak directly to someone, and it is hard for officials to ignore a flood of phone calls. Also, if you happen to call while an official is in session, they may be notified, reminding them that their constituents are watching.

However, the best way to get in touch with your officials is one that

you feel comfortable with.
you are most likely to actually follow through on.

Sample Phone Script

You: Hello, My name is [your name] and I am a constituent of [elected official]. I would like to make a comment to them about [problem/policy/etc.]

Staff member: Sure. Please go ahead.

You: Thank you. I’m calling to urge [elected official’s name] to support laws that [e.g. fix the problem you are calling about - explain that here]. I care about this because [reason].

Sample Letter Outline

Open with who you are and why you are writing.
Highlight a maximum of three points related to the primary reason for your letter.
Make it personal: explain how this issue connects to your life.
Relate to the official: have you voted for them in the past? volunteered for them?
Include a courteous closing.

General Reminders

You're an expert about your community. Sometimes your officials don't know any more about a particular issue than you do.

Keep your communications brief and to the point. It is good to stay focused on one issue each time you contact an official.
Officials are like everyone else - they want to know when you're happy with their work. Let them know!
Even when in disagreement with your official, keep all communication respectful and productive.