There is a protocol for writing to elected officials.
One of the great things about a democracy is that elected officials are supposed to be accessible to any of their constituents. This means that contact information, including telephone numbers and mailing addresses, is publicly listed for state and federal representatives, senators, governors and other holders of public office. While it may feel overwhelming if you don't know where to begin, you'll soon find that it's easy to send correspondence to government officials.
Instructions
1. Make sure you know whom to contact first. For local issues that are affecting your community, go to your state government website to find out contact information for state senators and members of the house of representatives. Those individuals listed will also have information about the areas of your state they serve. For example, if you would like to send a letter concerned with a Worcester County issue, don't send the letter to a Suffolk County representative. You can also contact local officials in your municipality.
2. Include your address and the elected official's full address at the top of the letter and date the letter, even if you only want to send an email. Keep your language formal and concise. Remember that elected officials receive thousands of inquiries, complaints and other pieces of correspondence daily, so keep your letter to the point.
3. Selecting the salutation for your letter is as straightforward as knowing the recipient's exact office. For example, if you're writing to a senator, address your letter as "Dear Senator Smith" or "Dear Sen. Smith." If you are unsure what office the recipient holds, a standard Mr./Ms. salutation will work. Avoid the use of Mrs., as you don't want to assume the marital status of the recipient.
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