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The Conversation
The Conversation
Politics
Daniel E Bergan, Associate Professor in Communication & Public Policy, Michigan State University

Contacting your legislator? Cite your sources – if you want them to listen to you

If you're going to write to your legislator, do your homework on the issues. digitalskillet/ iStock / Getty Images Plus

Suppose you have an issue you are really passionate about – taxes, gun control or some other important policy. You want to do more than vent on social media, so you decide to write an email, place a phone call or even draft a letter to your state legislator expressing your views.

As a citizen, I would praise your sense of civic responsibility and willingness to express your opinion. As a scholar, I would encourage your efforts – they’re more consequential than many people realize.

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