Interactions

Recent actions by the U.S. federal government, including funding and employee cuts, are putting scientific research at risk. Members of Congress need to hear from you to clearly understand the impact this is having on constituents in their state, so they can advocate on your behalf at the federal level. Calling your representative is the best way to make your voice heard.

1. ​Find Your Representative's Contact Information
   Enter your home address on govtrack.us to locate your Member of Congress or Senators and their phone number.
   
   
2. Make the Call
   When a staff member answers, introduce yourself by sharing your name and address to confirm you are a constituent.
   
   

• If you're directed to voicemail, simply leave a message. Some voicemails have strict time limits, so try to keep your talking points short and under 30 seconds.
  
  

3. ​Keep It Clear and Concise*
   Your conversation might be brief due to other incoming calls, so be sure to clearly mention the following (as applicable):
   
   

• Why you are calling
• Your research area
  
• Importance of federal funding to your research
  
• How your research and molecular plant-microbe interactions research more broadly serves the national interest
  
  

4. ​Remain Polite and Professional
   Be respectful during the call and offer your contact information in case they want to follow up with you later.
   
   
5. Add Personalization and Your Own Story*
   Here is an example of a message that gets at all key points your representative will need:​
   
   

6. ​Email Works Too: Don't have time to call? Find email addresses on govtrack.us too and hit on your key points in an email.
   
   
7. Spread the Word: Encourage your colleagues and lab members to make calls or send emails. Every touchpoint matters!