How to Write to a Senator

Writing a letter is still one of the best ways to make your position on issues known to your elected officials. Follow these steps to craft an effective letter to your Senator.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. You can get your senator's address from the Congressional Directory in your library, or by entering the official's name in a search engine such a Google.

2. Decide whether to write your senator an email or to send a paper letter. If you are writing about an issue that your senator is going to vote on shortly, an email will reach her quickly. If you have time on an issue, write a letter.

3. Use the honorific "Honorable" when addressing the letter. You may use an abbreviation such as "Hon. Sen. James A. Smith."

4. Include your name address and telephone number at the top right of the letter as if you were writing a normal business letter. You want your senator to know that you are a constituent.

5. Explain whether you have donated to the senator's campaign, or if you are a working member of her party. Don't feel as if trying to get leverage is wrong; politicians do it every day.

6. Use a polite tone, trying to appeal to the senator's own interests when addressing an issue. Make sure that you tell him that many of your friends and associates feel the same way. If you are very passionate about the issue you are writing about, make sure to convey the impression that you will remember how he voted when Election Day comes.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to end the letter on a good note. Make your elected official feel as if you value his good work. Remember the old adage about bees and honey.
• Don't be hostile or abusive.

Resources

• The addresses of Congressional Members.
• A site that you can enter your zip code and find your Senator's address.