 |
Weber County
Democrats
|
Home
When You
Write:
Address your letter to the right person. Handwritten letters are
preferable if your handwriting is legible. A letter that is clearly
from an individual, written on his/her own initiative, carries much
more weight than a bunch of mass-produced form letters or e-mail.
Computer-generated mail is so sophisticated that it often looks
like it's done by an individual. Handwritten letters are now the only
way that a congressional office knows that the letter really comes from
an individual. If you prefer to type a letter, it is suggested that you
sign it
and then add a handwritten P.S.
The more personal your letter is, the more influence it has. Say what's
on your mind and in your heart. Use your own words wherever possible,
but don't think you have to write like an expert to have influence.
You're stating your opinions, not writing for a grade--it's the content
that counts.
Be brief, clear and specific. Keep your letter to one page if possible.
State your opinion and your specific request within the first few
sentences. If you are writing about a certain bill, specify its number.
Build your case and explain why you feel as you do. Use facts, not
emotional arguments to support your position. Explain the ramifications
of the matter in question. If you are writing in opposition
to something, say so. Explain why it is wrong, and suggest
alternatives. Remember that a well reasoned position will cross
party lines.
Be courteous and reasonable, pleasant but firm in tone. Show respect
for the policymakers you contact, even when you disagree with
them. If you admire your legislator for a particular reason,
mention it in
your letter. Ask the policymaker to state her or his position in
a
response letter.
Include your address on your letter; an envelope can get lost. You may
want to include a phone number as well, if you'd like to discuss the
matter by phone.
Be sure to include your name and complete address (even for email
correspondence).
Finally, remember that your representative's Washington
office processes mail by the bagful and may be the target of a nation
wide mail campaign. A letter a local office such as the
Federal Building in Ogden may get more attention simply because it is
more likely to come form someone local (and if you are calling, it is
not long distance).
Follow this recommended format:
The Honorable _____________
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
The Honorable _____________
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Home