​To effectively contact your elected officials, keep your message brief, personal, and respectful, clearly identifying yourself as a constituent and stating the action you desire. 

General Tips

• Identify Yourself as a Constituent: Officials prioritize input from people they represent. Include your full name, home address, and zip code in all communications so staff can verify you are a constituent.

• Be Brief and Concise: Aim for a single page for letters/emails or a one-to-two-minute phone call. Aides typically read and summarize messages for the official, so be direct with your main points (ideally no more than three).

• Personalize Your Message: Form letters are often tallied but rarely read in detail. Use form letters as a base, but add your own words and a brief, personal story about how the issue affects you, your family, or your community.

• Be Specific About Your Ask: Clearly state what action you want the official to take (e.g., vote for or against a specific bill, co-sponsor legislation, address a local problem). Mention the bill number or popular title if possible.

• Be Respectful and Courteous: Avoid threats, profanity, or insults. Taking a firm position is fine, but being disrespectful can cause your message to be ignored.

• Time Your Contact: Contact the official while the bill is still in committee or before a crucial vote to have the most impact.

• Follow Up: Send a thank-you note if they vote your way, or a polite note expressing disappointment if they do not. This helps build a relationship and keeps the issue on their radar.