Calling your Senators and Representatives is the best way to make your voice heard.
While emails and letters can also be useful, phone calls carry more weight. Congress members often receive many emails, and they can get lost in the shuffle and some won’t acknowledge letters if they’ve been “mass produced”. Postal mail to the Senate is significantly delayed due to the security procedures in place to screen incoming letters. But a phone call, even if answered by a staffer or intern, shows that the issue is important enough for you to take time out of your day. A large volume of calls on a single issue is a clear signal to your representative that the policy has broad support or opposition.
Calling Congress may seem daunting at first, but it’s one of the most direct ways to make your voice heard and influence the decisions that affect you. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it can make a real difference — so why not pick up the phone? *TRICK – if you’re really uncomfortable you can call after hours and leave a message on their voicemail.
Here’s why making a call can have a significant impact:
Elected Officials Care About Re-election – And You Hold the Key
Members of Congress spend more than half of their time focused on re-election efforts. To stay in office, they need to address the concerns of their constituents. When you call to express your support for or opposition to a policy, you’re directly influencing their decisions about what matters most to voters. This is how democracy works — by holding your lawmakers accountable, you’re ensuring they work for you.
A Surge of Calls Builds Serious Pressure
When a lawmaker starts receiving repeated calls on the same issue, it creates significant pressure to act in alignment with what their constituents want. A flood of phone calls can overwhelm an office, forcing them to prioritize the concerns of voters. Your call isn’t just one voice — it’s part of a larger grassroots effort that can push your representative to take action. you hold them accountable and remind them that they’re expected to represent your interests at all times.
It Only Takes Two Minutes — Seriously!
Making a call to your representatives is incredibly quick and easy. Most advocacy groups provide you with clear instructions and a simple script, although adding your personal touch is always encouraged.
Tips for Effective Calls:
Only Call Your Representatives
Make sure you’re calling the lawmakers who represent you. Calling someone outside your district or state won’t have the desired effect, as they are unlikely to prioritize the views of voters they don’t represent.
Be Specific, Polite, and Personal
When you call, introduce yourself by stating your name, city, and state. Mention the specific bill you’re calling about, and keep your message concise. Sharing a personal story or explaining how the policy impacts you can make a bigger impact and help your message stand out.