Telephoning Representatives
About Telephoning Your Elected Officials
To find your U.S. Senators' and Representative's phone numbers, use the searchable online congressional directory or call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask for your Member's Office. To find your State Senator's or Representative's phone number, use the searchable online directory or call the State Capitol Switchboard at (217) 782-2000 and ask for your Member's office.
Telephone Tips
- Remember that telephone calls are usually taken by a staff member, not the member of Congress. Ask to speak with the aide who handles the issue about which you wish to comment.
- Identify yourself by name and the organization (if any) that you represent or the town from which you are calling.
- Explain why you are calling: "I am calling to support/oppose House Bill: HB_____, Senate Bill: SB_____ in the state legislature." OR "I am calling to support/oppose House Bill: HR_____, Senate Bill: S_____ in Congress."
- Be polite and concise. Creating 1 or 2 talking points will focus the content of your message.
- Ask your elected official's position on this issue. Don't assume that the person answering the phone has prior knowledge of your issue. Be calm, respectful, and be prepared to educate, using local examples to accentuate your point.
- Request a written response to your phone call. If the office requires further information, provide it as soon as possible.
- Thank the person who took the phone call for their time and consideration.
