Maybe you've written to elected officials in the past, or maybe it's something you haven't done (yet!). Taking the time to contact electeds is a good way to take action if you are able to craft an effective message. Here are a few pointers:

•  Address a single, specific issue. Use the name of the bill in question if applicable.

X   Broad, general requests are unlikely to get a response or have any effect.

•  Use the person's official title and keep the tone of your letter respectful.

 X   Be frank and express how you feel, but don't get overly heated or resort to personal insults.

There's a place for venting about the real and scary issues we're facing, but a letter like this isn't it.

•  Timing matters. Sending letters or emails in the period leading up to a vote or other deadline is going to be much more effective than writing about events weeks, months, or years away.

• If you can, share why the issue at hand means something to you or people you care about on a personal level. A generic letter that could have come from anyone is less likely to be impactful than one that shares why what you're writing about really matters.

•  Email vs. an actual letter? This one has shifted over the years, and there may be still be merits to mailing an actual letter depending on who you're contacting and what kind of time frame you're on. But in general, it's 2025 and an email is more likely to reach your official in a timely manner and, therefore, be effective.