Writing your Representative

July 29, 2004

Most people choose to write their member of Congress. Public officials know that every letter they receive represents many others of similar opinion, but who have not taken the time to write. It is far more effective than e-mail and not as effective as a personal visit.

However, a well written letter with a concerned and professional tone will most probably be read by the representative himself and will definitely be read by a member of his or her staff who will in turn pass your comments on to the rep.

If you plan to write your Congressman, try these suggestions to help improve the effectiveness of your communication:

1. Use the first paragraph of your letter to state your purpose. If you are writing about a specific bill, identify it e.g., House bill: H. R. ____, Senate bill: S.____.

2. Be polite and to the point. Include all important information, and make use of examples to support your position.

3. For best results keep your letter to one page and address only one issue per letter.

4. Is there anything you like about them? It is human nature to be on the defense. Once a person feels they are on the defense, they are less likely to consider your concerns and instead focus on "winning the argument" - even if its not an actual argument, but rather a letter of complaint. Your goal is for them to completely read your letter. You do not need to flatter a representative who appears to be backing the destruction of our people - but - is there anything they have done that you can mention in a positive light? Are they loyal to their family? Did they back an important bill or do something good for the community? Include a brief statement about it before you move on to the main body of your letter. They will be more inclined to listen to your point of view.

Addressing Correspondence:

To a Senator:

The Honorable (full name)

Dear Senator:

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To a Representative:

The Honorable (full name)

Dear Representative:

E-mailing your Representative

When E-mailing your Representative, use the same guidelines offered above for writing letters to Congress.

Posted: July 29, 2004 08:02 PM