Any advice for someone calling their senators for the first time?

[W_HAMILTON]

Well, to be truthful, I actually called my senator earlier this week, when he was making … unfortunate … comments about the upcoming testimony from Dr. Blasey. It was a spur of the moment thing and I didn't even get a person, but I left a message on his voice mail and it was, let's say, off-the-cuff and stern but polite.

Should I prepare a statement ahead of time? Should I keep calling until I reach a person to actually speak to directly? Is it even worth it to leave a voice mail message? Is it okay to curse? lol

I know some of you are far more familiar than me with this, so, I am seeking out your advice.

Thank you!

[Permanut]

1. Write out your statement..

then memorize it for the voicemail. Keep it short. Keep in mind that opinions are tallied, so make it easy for them to put you in the yes column or the no column, the "for" column or the "against" column. And so on.

[W_HAMILTON]

4. Do you call repeatedly?

Or just call them once and let them know your position on a subject?

[Permanut]

9. Just my two cents..

Calling more than once turns me from a concerned constituent into an annoyance. I wait a week in between, and send emails as well.

[WhiteTara]

2. If you get voice mail, that was perfect

I try to relate to the staffer or intern who answers. If they give the party line, I explain my position and often ask them about their personal feelings--they're not supposed to have them, so they often won't say, but often do. I shame them and tell them I am ashamed of them and wonder how they can look in the mirror for shaving or makeup. I tell them they are on the wrong side of history and may God forgive them, history won't.

All the while being polite and not using curse words because then they can hang up on you. Follow your instinct. Be real.

[PA Democrat]

3. Make some notes about what you want to say

State the issue you are calling about. Clearly state what you expect them to do (vote yes or no) and why.

Be polite. If you have a personal stake/ experience briefly express it.

A lot of Senators' staffs are not answering live calls. You can keep trying but I have left messages in many cases since I have limited time to keep trying.

Good luck!

[MineralMan]

5. Use a different method of communication.

Calling will never get your message heard by any Senator, unless you are a very, very generous campaign contributor. Send your Senator a letter via the USPS, early enough for it to arrive before action is needed. Write it carefully, spell check it, and reread it several times and make any needed changes. Put it on your company letterhead if you have a company.

Your senator has an entire state full of constituents. He or she does not take phone calls.

[eleny]

6. Jot down your thoughts

Even just bullet points. The person on the line with you put on their socks one at a time like the rest of us. Just keep it short. They just need to know which side of the issue you're on. It's not a debate but an "fyi".

Leave a message if it's all you can do. And try to write to them via their web sites. Some take email from everywhere. Send a postcard for the long range issues that aren't imminent like today.

[Upthevibe]

7. Good for you for calling....

I called yesterday to other Senators in other states (because my Senators are Feinstein and Harris). I normally jot down my main points, I'm not impolite but I'm, of course, very serious. We need to flood offices with calls....

[blogslut]

8. Write down what you want to say

Keep it simple and short.

Don't curse or threaten.

Say you are a constituent.

Expect an answering machine but if you get a person, be civil.

[SCantiGOP]

10. You will get a recording usually when you call

But whether someone answers or not, your statement will just go into a tally sheet showing how the constituents feel about an issue.
State that you are an Independent; that will carry a bit more weight than declaring that you always vote for the other side.
Letters get the most attention, followed by calls and then emails.
The gold standard: go to see them at their DC office or local office. Then you will actually get a few minutes to make your case.
Finally - contact them often and be rational, polite and clear in your position if you want your opinion to be heard.