The majority of elected officials have e-mail addresses. Federal Representatives and Senators can be reached by calling the Capitol Hill switchboard at 202.224.3121. Ask for her or his office by name. Be prepared - Compose a concise, effective message before you call so you can be direct with the person with whom you are speaking. Do not expect that the person who answers your call will understand or know about the issue.
Phone calls are useful at strategic moments.
Cover the topic in five to ten minutes and then be prepared to leave. Be accurate and responsive - If you do not know the answer to a question, simply say so, and get back to the office with a quick, written response with the correct information when you obtain it. Limit yourself - Group meetings are best when three or four people are present. Meetings with staff can be productive - If the legislator cannot fit you into his or her schedule, meet with the appropriate staff person. Staff members are an extension of the legislator and will relay the information from your meeting.