Congressional elections happen every two years. Voters choose one-third of senators and every member of the House of Representatives. Midterm elections take place halfway between presidential elections.
If you know who your representative is but you are unable to contact them using their contact form, the Clerk of the House maintains addresses and phone numbers of all House members and Committees, or you may call (202) 224-3121 for the U.S. House switchboard operator.
Alternatively, you may phone the United States Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121. A switchboard operator will connect you directly with the Senate office you request.
Representatives are elected for two years. There is no limit on how many terms they can serve. The House has several special duties. Only representatives can introduce laws about taxes.
How long will it take to process my case? Can the congressman expedite my case? Typically, an agency responds within 30 days to a congressional inquiry. However, the nature of the case will dictate the time it takes to resolve the issues.
Although senators are members of Congress, they are not normally referred to or addressed as "Congressmen" or "Congresswomen" or "Congresspeople". Members of Congress in both houses are elected by direct popular vote. Senators are elected via a statewide vote and representatives by votes in each congressional district.
Federal Elected Officials U.S. President – Contact the president by filling out the online contact form or by calling the White House switchboard at 202-456-1414 or the comments line at 202-456-1111 during business hours.
Letters, emails, and faxes are effective ways to communicate with your elected officials.
Best PracticesBe Polite: Always be courteous, respectful, and civil. ... Be Prepared: Be clear about what it is you are asking or requesting of the official before you begin you send your communication or request your meeting. ... Be Truthful: It can be tempting to exaggerate facts to emphasize the importance of an issue.More items...
The Senate tradition of unlimited debate has allowed for the use of the filibuster, a loosely defined term for action designed to prolong debate and delay or prevent a vote on a bill, resolution, amendment, or other debatable question.
If a federal official commits a crime or otherwise acts improperly, the House of Representatives may impeach—formally charge—that official. If the official subsequently is convicted in a Senate impeachment trial, he is removed from office.
Powers of Congress Congress, as one of the three coequal branches of government, is ascribed significant powers by the Constitution. All legislative power in the government is vested in Congress, meaning that it is the only part of the government that can make new laws or change existing laws.
When addressing a representative personally, address him or her as "Mr./Mrs./Ms.," followed by the representative's last name. The informal honorifics "Congressman," "Congresswoman," or "Representative" may be used as an alternative, if your representative prefers.
Stay on topic, speak clearly and calmly and be ready to answer questions. Exhibiting a confident appearance will reassure officials that department leadership is effective and create a sense of trust. Consider bringing a fellow officer along when presenting and allow them to present and answer questions as well.
What is a Representative? Also referred to as a congressman or congresswoman, each representative is elected to a two-year term serving the people of a specific congressional district. Among other duties, representatives introduce bills and resolutions, offer amendments and serve on committees.
All they have to do is tell your elected official at the beginning of the call that they are speaking for you by saying “Hi, my name is[their name] and I am calling on behalf of [your name], who can't speak.” Some people are making groups in their communities to volunteer to make calls for people who can't speak.