Public Policy

Telephoning a Member of Congress

It's easy to contact your federal legislators by telephone. Call the capitol operator directly at 202/224-3121. Once you are connected to the capitol operator, ask for your senator or representative by name. You will then be connected directly to the member’s office.

Identify yourself as a constituent, and deliver your message. Make sure to leave your name and address to get a response.

Writing to a Member of Congress

Faxes and emails are the recommended forms of communication with a congressional office. Sending a letter via post is greatly discouraged because of time delays associated with security procedures.

Composing 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, by bill number if possible. View the Council’s Bill Tracker for more information.
• Be courteous and to the point. Include key information, using examples to support your position.
• Address only one issue in each letter. Try to keep the letter to one page.

Format for a Fax to Congress

To a Senator

To a Representative

Note: When writing to the chair of a committee or the Speaker of the House, it is proper to address him or her as Dear Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairwoman, or Dear Mr. Speaker or Madam Speaker.

Format for an Email to congress

When addressing an email to a member of Congress, follow the same suggestions as for a printed letter. In the subject line of your email, include the issue or bill number. The body of your message should use this format: