Calling Public Officials

Telephone calls are also a convenient way to communicate your messages to government officials, including Members of Congress. In most cases, unless the official knows you personally, you will probably be unable to speak with him or her directly. Instead, you will more than likely be referred to the staff member responsible for public transportation issues. Keep your message brief and to the point, and don’t forget to personalize your story.

Following this helpful format when calling a local, state or federal official’s office:

• Keep your call brief and to the point.
• Identify yourself as a constituent and the issue about which you are calling.
• Express your opinion and the reasons you feel the way you do.
• Be specific about what you wish the official to do.
• Be courteous and understanding of reasonable differences of opinion.
• If you would like a reply, request a written response and provide your name and address.
• Follow up your telephone call with a letter that reiterates your message and explains the issue in more detail.

All U.S. Senators and Representatives can be reached through the Capitol Hill switchboard at (202) 224-3121.