Tips for Writing Letters to Elected Officials

Personal letters are best!

This is the most effective method of communication with an elected official. Personal letters rather than form letters are best! Such letters demonstrate your commitment to the College. A personal note need only take a few minutes of time.

Let them know you are a constituent!

Clearly identify yourself. Be sure to include your contact information in your letter. This includes your home address, phone numbers, and email address. The contact information identifies you as a constituent of the elected official. So, be sure to include your home address in addition to your email address even when sending an email.

Notes and emails work!

The type of correspondence is up to you. Handwritten notes and emails can be just as persuasive as a formal letter. Just be sure to include your home address in any type of correspondence, including emails.

What do I say?

• Review the “Key Points” page when drafting your correspondence.
• Tell your story. Describe your affiliation with the College. How did MC change your life? Why do you work here? Why do you go to school? Why do you volunteer to support the College? Why do you teach here? Personal stories make the most compelling case for support of the College.
• Keep it simple. Your correspondence should be brief and to the point.
  • A one page letter is more than enough.
  • Stick to one issue - MC needs funding!
  • Ask for the result you support - Fully fund MC’s budget requests!
  • Say “Thank you!” - Thank you for supporting MC!

Proper etiquette is a must!

• When addressing a letter to an elected official always place “The Honorable” in front of their name.
• In the salutation of your correspondence, use the specific title of the office they hold. For example:
  • - Dear County Executive (last name)
  • - Dear Senator (last name)
  • - Dear Delegate (last name)
  • - Dear Councilmember (last name)
  • - Dear Congressman/woman (last name)
• Send thank you letters even if the response isn’t quite what you requested. Remember, we want to build long term relationships with our elected officials.