Cheat Sheet for Calling Representatives

I'm a manuscript preacher - you know what that means when I'm calling my representatives to tell them thank you and to offer my concerns? I need a script. It doesn't make me stupid. It doesn't mean I'm bad with words. It means I like to think about what I'm going to say before I say it. It means I care enough about my representatives time - no, the staffer's time who is answering countless calls each day - to say something in a concise manner. 

So here - I'm sharing my script. Cut and paste. Adjust for yourself. Share it. 

Step One: If you get a real person:
May I speak with the staffer responsible for: issue you're calling about (immigration, ban on refugees, healthcare, education, senate hearings, etc...) 



Step Two: Introduce and Thank  

Hello my name is NAME. And my zip is ZIP CODE.

First I'm calling to say thank you for all that the SENATOR OR CONGRESSWOMAN/MAN does for our state. And thank you for all that you and the rest of the staff do here and in Washington, DC. 

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Step Three: Share Your Conern

If calling about refugees - 
I am concerned about this latest temporary ban on refugees. In particular a ban on Muslims coming into the country and even more disturbed by any preferential treatment that a Christian may receive coming into the country.  
​Please do whatever you can to lift this temporary ban on refugees. (For those in my congregation, I add: My congregation has been working with Church World Service to settle refugees and I am calling asking you to help lift the temporary ban so that we can continue our work.)


Add this when calling Senators - In addition, I understand Jeff Sessions co-wrote the ban so please make sure to vote no at his confirmation hearing. 

Again, thank you for all that you do. There is no need to call  me back. ​

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If Calling about Healthcare – 
I am concerned about repealing the Affordable Care Act without a replacement.  My husband has secondary multiple sclerosis and is on federal disability. Right now he relies on the healthcare that I get through my employer. We are concerned for those with preexisting conditions. The ACA has also made healthcare affordable for so many in my circles through the medicaid expansion. Please ensure that the replacement for the ACA looks after those who are most vulnerable in our society. 

Again, thank you for all that you do. There is no need to call  me back. ​

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