TIPS FOR ACTION CALLS
Compiled by Indivisible Yolo
Davis, CA Updated: 1/31/25
Goals of action calls:
- To slow down the bills we can’t stop, or stop bills if we can. Trump and MAGA want to fast track bills as they are in their strongest position right now. We need to contact Dems to help them step up and show strong opposition.
- To thank our legislators for voting the way we want them to vote. It helps solidify their position.
- If they aren’t getting calls, they don’t think it’s important to us. They say, “I’m not getting many calls about this.”
Calls are the gold standard (best)
- Because it gets recorded immediately and you can make sure staff do what they need to do to record your position in their system
- Call separately for each bill/issue you are calling about. (Staff might be busy and only record the easiest of your issue positions.) But you can call at each new step in the legislative process.
- Give your name & zip code. (Staff should ask for that to record your response in their system).
- Use the provided call script but tailor your message to what is important to you/what impact this will have.
- Give them the name of the organization you are part of, in this case, Indivisible Yolo, so they know that we are organizing people to call.
- Ask for a response. Ask for their name and if you don’t get a response, follow up.
- If you can’t get through to leave a message, try calling district office numbers or visit the district office (and bring others with you.)
- Voice a complaint if you can’t leave messages, either by email at their website or in person.
Email is a good second best.
- Follow the same protocol as with calls.
Letters/postcards are not reliable
- It’s unpredictable whether your message will be recorded in a timely manner.
- It could take a week to get processed because of security procedures.
Meeting with your legislators is definitely great to do but takes time to set up (but can’t be done frequently enough with all that’s happening right now). Best to set up a meeting at the district office. If you need help with this let us know.
Why we call our Legislators
U.S. Capitol Switchboard (operates 24/7) 202-224-3121
If you disagree:
They need to know that not all constituents are behind them. If they get enough calls, they’ll pay attention.
If you agree:
It is crucial that they know they have support so they keep fighting. Thank them for their position.