I'll add, for anyone (like me) with social anxiety, esp. around the phone: they don't argue with you! They listen and record your comment. If they agree they will probably reassure you! If they don't, they just log you and you hang up. That's it. We can do this. ❤️👊 - ThreadSky

pronounced-ing.bsky.social • 34 days ago

I'll add, for anyone (like me) with social anxiety, esp. around the phone: they don't argue with you! They listen and record your comment. If they agree they will probably reassure you! If they don't, they just log you and you hang up. That's it. We can do this. ❤️👊

Reposted from Katie Mack

It is very easy to call your representatives’ offices. They have to log your calls and the call numbers are meaningful. You don’t even have to try to convince anyone; just call and tell them your concerns. They are there to represent you. Let them know what that means. www.usa.gov/elected-offi...

Comments

regretlab.bsky.social•34 days ago

As a former senate intern, the BEST script is: "Hello, I'm a constituent. I live in [town, zip code]. I'm calling to ask the [senator/representative] to [support/oppose] [specific piece of legislation (best); extremely short description of issue otherwise]. Thank you."

regretlab.bsky.social•34 days ago

If you want to get a form letter with their response, you can include your email or mailing address.

pronounced-ing.bsky.social•34 days ago

Can I repost this? And if so do you want me to strip your handle off or leave it on?

regretlab.bsky.social•34 days ago

Yes, feel free to repost; would probably be better to drop my handle, thanks for asking.

pronounced-ing.bsky.social•34 days ago

I wanted to check--I want to give you credit but also, don't want to send unwanted/overwhelming attention your way. Will drop you handle! Thank you.

perry313.bsky.social•34 days ago

There is a formula they use that is something like 10,000 votes per call. Don't quote me on that but I think that is close. The other things to note is the mid-terms coming up. The R advantage is very slim. There are Rs in states like NY and CA that must be very nervous about now.

docjcf.bsky.social•34 days ago

Is writing a message not as effective? Just curious about this. I have submitted messages but if it helps more to call I can do that as well.

pronounced-ing.bsky.social•34 days ago

I think calling is ideal but leaving a message on VM (nights/weekends) or an email is also helpful and better than nothing. It all gets logged.

sunathetuna.bsky.social•34 days ago

Thank you for this!

alexisg.bsky.social•34 days ago

Because I worry that I will forget what I want to say when I call my reps so I usually make notes (on paper - because I am old lol) so if phone anxiety kicks in and my mind goes blank I can just read from my notes.

velosol.bsky.social•34 days ago

You need the paper even if you're not old, you're talking on the phone you'd take notes on otherwise!

I know, speakerphone exists but let's pretend we're making the call in public.

pronounced-ing.bsky.social•34 days ago

From a former Congressional staffer, here's what to say:

"Hello, I'm a constituent. I live in [town, zip code]. I'm calling to ask the [senator/representative] to [support/oppose] [specific piece of legislation (best); extremely short description of issue otherwise]. Thank you."

miffens.bsky.social•33 days ago

What should I expect for the hang up ritual? Will they say "we recorded your response" and I just go "great ok bye"?

mauimax.bsky.social•31 days ago

📌

paulallenk.bsky.social•34 days ago

But they only care about rich donors. Not constituents. Perhaps we need more Luigi's. A dark thought for dark times

itchybitchyspider.bsky.social•34 days ago

As an introvert, anxious, & socially anxious person, thanks for sharing this!

📌

brainstorm72.bsky.social•33 days ago

Does it matter whether we call their DC office or local office?

feelslike98.bsky.social•33 days ago

They usually do t answer the DC line. Call the local office.

pt007.bsky.social•34 days ago

Here is a call script to urge your State Congress members to act against President Trump’s actions potentially violating the Impoundment Control Act:

Hello, [Representative/Senator’s Name],

Find your members of Congress using your address
https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

shes-got-an-edge.bsky.social•34 days ago

If you don't want to talk to an actual person, call after hours. It'll go straight to voicemail.

And if calling is just not something you can do, email. It's not as effective, but it's significantly better than nothing.

baygazer.bsky.social•33 days ago

Done!

pt007.bsky.social•33 days ago

👏🏽😸🫶🏽

minnieheals.bsky.social•34 days ago

I used this script as well as added something about RFK Jr., as well.

mmk007.bsky.social•33 days ago

But what to do when all my elected reps are dems and rational? (I know, lucky scab)

chidesilife.bsky.social•34 days ago

Calling is so important! It takes time & effort on the part of the constituent, so the elected officials notice.

Thank-you for calling and encouraging others to do the same!

Anyone in Illinois, the best way to connect with Sen. Duckworth's staff is at her Chicago number: 312-886-3506

libroloverjen.bsky.social•34 days ago

It’s not hard to call! I too hate talking to strangers on the phone, but the office staff I’ve spoken with is very polite and just record the thoughts you want to share. Call or email! All electeds need to hear our opinions.

maranovak.bsky.social•34 days ago

We tell folks they can call after hours and leave messages if they are uncomfortable talking to a live person. Tallied just like a live call!

heathermilam.bsky.social•34 days ago

Can confirm. I’ve been a little heated on a few of my calls and the staffer just takes my information. I wouldn’t want their job, but I’m glad they’re there.

rockshrimp.bsky.social•34 days ago

These days I usually just get an answering machine anyway. I like to tell myself it’s because so many other people are also calling.

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