Calling Your member of Congress

You can contact your Member of Congress through the Capitol Switchboard (202-224-3121). Although it is unlikely that you will get to talk to the Member of Congress directly, you will be able to communicate your displeasure (or pleasure) with their policy on a given issue. The Member’s staff will take note of your concern and often convey it in some form to the Member. If the Member of Congress finds that their position is unpopular and untenable, your call may contribute to a change in policy.

Sample Conversation:

STAFFER: Congressman Anyguy’s office, how may I help you?

CALLER: Hi, my name Joe Smith from the representative’s district. I have been a long-time supporter of Congressman Anyguy and my son volunteered on his campaign last summer.

STAFFER: Thank you for your support. How can I help you today?

CALLER: Please tell the congressman to oppose the flag burning amendment. As a veteran who served in WWII, this is a very important issue for me. I fought for our country to keep it free and I don’t want those freedoms taken away in a false display of “patriotism.”

STAFFER: I’ll definitely pass along the message.

CALLER: Please also tell the Congressman that supporting this amendment is not the way to win the support of veterans. My local veterans group is considering passing a resolution opposing this amendment. We see this amendment for what it is – an election year stunt- and we hope that the Congressman does not buy into it.

STAFFER: Thanks for your concern and your call, Mr. Smith. I’ll go mention this to my supervisor.