Maine's U.S. Representatives and Senators
Remember that telephone calls are often
taken by a staff member, not the member of Congress. Ask to speak
with the aide who handles the issue to which you wish to comment.
After identifying yourself, tell the
aide you would like to leave a brief message, such as:
"Please tell Senator/Representative (Name) that I
support/oppose (S.___/H.R.8___)."
You will also want to state reasons for
your support or opposition to the bill. Ask for your Senator's or
Representative's position on the bill. You may also request a
written response to your telephone call.
Tips On Writing Congress
The letter is the most popular choice of
communication with a congressional office. If you decide to write
a letter, this list of helpful suggestions will improve the
effectiveness of the letter:
- Your purpose for writing should be
stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If your letter
pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it
accordingly, e.g., House bill: H. R. ____, Senate bill:
S.____.
- Be courteous, to the point, and
include key information, using examples to support your
position.
- Address only one issue in each
letter; and, if possible, keep the letter to one page.
Addressing Correspondence:
To a Senator:
The Honorable (full name)
__(Rm.#)__(name of) Senate Office Building
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator:
To a Representative:
The Honorable (full name)
__(Rm.#)__(name of)House Office Building
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Representative:
Note: When
writing to the Chair of a Committee or the Speaker of the House,
it is proper to address them as:
Dear Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairwoman:
or Dear Mr. Speaker:
Tips On E-mailing Congress
Generally, the same guidelines apply as
with writing letters to Congress. You may find and e-mail your
representatives directly from the links found above.
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