They cannot be held responsible for things that occur during their terms in Washington, DC if they have no knowledge of the actions or issues or if they have no input. That's where your job comes in. It is up to you to let your Representatives and Senators know what is happening and what you think about it. First of all, one phone call after another makes an impact. Receiving one letter after another on the same topic makes an impact.
Legislators tend to spend more time in DC than they do at home in their district.
That's just the way the system works. Most legislators will follow-up with a letter to you after a phone call. If they tell you one thing and then vote another way, call them and hold them accountable. That's the way the system works. And, that's why there are elections.