Building Relationships with Senators

Connecting directly with senators is one way to share your perspective, ask
questions, and stay informed about legislative bills. Senators want to hear from the
people they represent. However, their schedules are often busy, especially during the legislative session, so reaching out between sessions is a good way to get started.

Tips for Emailing Senators

Emailing allows you to share your thoughts or ask questions in a more detailed and flexible way. Keep in mind you will likely be interacting with the Senator’s staff if you email.

  • Identify yourself, and let the senator know if you are a constituent.
  • Add the legislative bill number to the subject line and body of the email.
  • Use your own words. Personal messages are more impactful than form emails. Form emails are often shared by organizations, with the message already written; all you need to do is fill in your information. Form emails are NOT recommended.
  • Share how the legislative bill affects you, your community, or the people around you.
  • Be clear about your position. Let them know if you are asking them to support, oppose, or amend the legislative bill.
  • Follow up when appropriate. A thank-you message can help maintain connection.

Tips for Calling Senators

Calling a senator’s office is a quick and effective way to share your position or ask questions. Even brief communication can help inform how senators understand an issue. Keep in mind you will likely be interacting with the Senator’s staff if you call.

  • Introduce yourself. Share your name and, if applicable, the district you live in. You may be asked to provide your city and/or zip code.
  • Clearly state the legislative bill number you are calling about.
  • Share your perspective. Use your own words to explain why the issue matters to you.
  • Be clear about your position. Let them know if you are asking them to support, oppose, or amend the legislative bill.
  • Keep it brief. Staff often have limited time.
  • Be respectful. Kind, clear communication helps your message be heard.
  • Leave a message if needed. Include your name and contact information.

Tips for Meeting Senators Face-to-Face

Meeting with a senator is a meaningful way to share your perspective directly.

Scheduling a Meeting

  • Contact the senator’s office and work with staff to find a time to meet. Sometimes you may meet with the senator’s staff instead of the senator themself.
  • Keep it focused. You may only have 15 minutes, so prepare 2–3 key points.
  • Explain how the legislative bill/issue affects you, your community, or the people around you.
  • Be clear about your position. Let them know if you are asking them to support, oppose, or amend the legislative bill.
  • Bring materials if helpful. A one-page summary or fact sheet can be useful.
  • It’s okay not to have every answer. You can follow up later with additional information by emailing the senator’s office or a staff member.
  • Send a thank-you note (handwritten goes a long way) and any requested information after the meeting.

Pulling a Senator at the Capitol

If you are at the Capitol during debate, you can “pull a senator” off the floor and into the Rotunda by writing a request with the Sergeant at Arms (people wearing red coats) at the desk near the legislative chamber in the Rotunda (2nd floor). The Sergeant at Arms will deliver your request to the senator in the chamber. Senators may come out quickly, but sometimes it can take a while. Be prepared to wait for a few hours.

Attire

If you are meeting with your senator in person either at the Capitol or somewhere in their district, dress in what feels comfortable for you in that setting. Keep in mind the senator will be wearing business clothes (suit, tie, dress, blazer, etc.).