Before Your Call
Prepare a call script or at least have a set of notes to follow during your call. We recommend using 5 Calls as a resource for sample call scripts. Indivisible also has some helpful scripts and advice for calling MOCs before and after a vote on a bill. Your script should be succinct and make specific actionable requests (e.g., vote no on the SAVE Act, condemn Trump's racist rhetoric).
During Your Call
Open your call by providing your name and where you live. Clearly indicate that you are a constituent of the elected official you are calling. Wrap up your call by requesting a response from your member of Congress (MOC) and verify that the staffer has your contact info.
Additional Tips
Don't: Only call to complain. If your MOC has done something you appreciate, contact them to thank them. Let them know you have their back when they stand up to the Trump Administration and MAGA Republicans.
Do: Contact only MOC who represent you. Congressional staff only track calls from constituents. So, any calls or letters to a MOC that you cannot vote for will be discarded. Calling a member of Congress that does not represent you also makes it harder for their actual constituents to have their voices heard. For more details, see this article from Indivisible and this video from Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow.
Do: Save your MOC phone numbers on your phone to make it easier to call them.
References:
- "Why Calling Your Elected Officials STILL Matters" from Americans of Conscience
- "Indivisible States: Coordinated Calls" from Indivisible
- "How to Call Your Members of Congress in 3 Easy Steps" from the League of Conservation Voters
- The Smartass Staffer Instagram video tutorial
- "Why You Should Not Call Members Who Aren't Yours" from Indivisible
- Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow video, "Can I contact a member of Congress from a different state than me?"
