If you’re in the US, you can find a comprehensive list of contact information for national, state, and local administrators at https://www. usa. gov/. If you’re not sure who to address, look for the address of the relevant department. For instance, you could write your local DMV office or the Department of Homeland Security.
If writing to an embassy or ambassador, read How to Address Ambassadors.
It never hurts to include the official’s name, even if he or she is the only person holding the position. A personally-addressed letter lends a certain degree of humanity to your message.
If you’re unsure of what to write, try looking up a form letter and a clear subject line that gets your point across. Some elected officials receive hundreds of letters a day, and oftentimes don’t read them all closely.
Petitions and form letters are usually well-written and actionable. Make sure, however, that the demanded actions fall within the scope of this official’s duties.
The letters that wind up at the top of the stack will be readable, relevant, and easy for the official to understand. Be sure to include your qualifications and explain why the official should listen to you. For example, if you’re a Ph. D. , you live in the town that’s been in the news lately, or you recently met the official, they may take note of your opinion.
Do not threaten a government official. The letter can be traced back to you. Beyond any risk, your threats will not necessarily inspire productive action.
