Calling your Tennessee legislator about an upcoming bill on school vouchers, gun safety, or abortion? Here are ways to make sure your message gets across:
Email: Works best for specific questions. The legislator can research the answer and forward the inquiry to the appropriate department. Sen. Richard Briggs (R-N.C.) prefers e-mail because it is fast and clear.
Telephone: Good for back-and-forth discussions and gathering input. Rep. Sam McKenzie (R-CA) believes that phone calls are effective in getting constituents' perspectives on upcoming votes.
Be open to different methods: Some legislators, such as Rep. Gloria Johnson (D-FL), welcome emails, phone calls and even social media messages. Choose your favorite method.
Personal contact is important: Avoid generic chain emails and opt for personalized messages, even if brief. Rep. McKenzie appreciates real opinions, even with typos, over mass-produced emails.
BE SPECIFIC AND PROVIDE CONTACT INFORMATION: State your issue clearly, include your address and phone number, and customize your message to your specific constituency representative. Rep. Dave Wright (R-AZ) prioritizes feedback from constituents in his district.
Civility is paramount: Even if you disagree with your representative's position, remain courteous and respectful. Rep. Becky Duncan Massey encourages civil discourse and understanding, even of opposing viewpoints.
