The Speaker of the house staffers will transfer your call

[nadinbrzezinski]

to a voice mail box

Now tell me folks, how rude is this?

I know she does not want to deal wiht the rabble, but these are the kinds of tactics that make it plainly clear

[gateley]

1. I was thinking of this the other day - we have no real access to our elected

representatives. We don't even know if e-mails, letters, messages get to the intended person - their "people" probably determine what is worthy and what isn't.

Doesn't seem right.

When I call Elizabeth Dole's office, there's a very pleasant staffer taking my message and thanking me for calling. That's the only positive thing I can say about Dole, by the way. Others need to show the same respect to their constituents.

I share your view.

[nadinbrzezinski]

3. I wonder if what it will take is for

all of us to show up with a thick envelope

We need to get the money out of this... that IS a start

[cali]

6. I do. Have the ability to have contact with my reps.

Bernie holds frequent town meetings. Pat's office is responsive. Same with Welch. All appear frequently on VPR and VPT to answer questions.
As for my state reps and even the gov, you can call them at home. All of them publish their home phones.

[gateley]

8. That's absolutely amazing - I've honestly never heard of such a thing! Your

reps are to be commended - I am so impressed!

[Benhurst]

7. She must be getting worried. I gave up writing her several years ago, even

on those few issues I assumed we were in agreement, because she would never answer her mail.

Run, Lidda! Run! And keep on going until you are in Mexico.

[gateley]

9. I don't think she's running next time, so I was actually surprised I got such

cordial receptions. Maybe it's just the southern hospitality thing.

[nadinbrzezinski]

11. Keep writing

That is the best advise I can give you

[mike_c]

2. that is shameful....

eom

[rodeodance]

4. oh for peteys sake. can you imagine how many calls she gets in a day!

[nadinbrzezinski]

5. And....

she also gets a large staff

Sorry, don't wash

[gateley]

10. I agree. Have a phone bank with live people. All they have to do is what

Dole's staff does. Be pleasant, thank the caller - it doesn't take much. Granted they'd be the recipients of ire and frustration, but that's understandable. All one needs to say is "I'm so sorry for your frustration." or whatever.