Tips for Communicating With a Member of Congress

Video Series - Effective Communication

 

In the above video series, former Representative Jim Buchy shares his tips for communicating and working with elected officials. 
Click here to download the Effective Communication handout.

Writing A Letter

The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a congressional office. If you decide to write a letter, this list of helpful suggestions will improve the effectiveness of your message.

Addressing Correspondence

To a Senator  To a Representative
The Honorable [Full Name]  
United States Senate 
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator [Last Name]: 
The Honorable [Full Name]  
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Last Name]:

 

Purpose of Your Letter

  • Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If the letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it accordingly, e.g. House Bill: H.R. ____, Senate Bill: S ___.
  • Be courteous, to the point and include key information, using examples to support your position.
  • Address only one issue in each letter and, and if possible, keep the letter to one page.

Click here to download this information as a Word document template.

 


Sending Email to Congress

When addressing an email to a member of Congress, follow the same suggestions as for a printed letter. For the subject line of your email, identify your message by topic or bill number. The body of your message should use the following format:

Your Name
Address
City, State ZIP
Dear [Title] [Last Name],

 

NOTE: When writing to the Chair of a Committee or the Speaker of the House, it is proper to address him/her as:

Dear Mr. Chairman;

Or

Dear Madam Chairwoman;

Or

Dear Mr. Speaker;

Click here to download this information as a Word document template.