Sample script for calling the Senate
October 27, 2009 | HR 2404, United Against Afghanistan Escalation
Calling Tips
* Get the phone number from the excel spreadsheet on the main page (the Senate is the second tab on the spreadsheet), or call the Congressional switchboard at 202-225-3121 and ask to be transferred to the Senator’s office.
* Check the spreadsheet on and search through the comments to see what’s known so far about where the Senator stands. Key things you want to know are: has the Senator spoken out against sending more U.S. troops? Is the Senator introducing legislation in opposition to a troop increase? That’s going to shape your conversation with the office or the message you leave if you have to leave a message.
* Be polite, respectful and clear.
* Introduce yourself to whoever answers the phone. Let them know you are a constituent (if you are a constituent) and mention what city you live in.
* If you can, try to get a staff person on Afghanistan or a staff person who can speak to the Senator’s position a troop increase on the phone.
* Say that you’re very concerned about plans to escalate militarily in Afghanistan and that you want the Senator to speak out against it.
Sample Script for Your Calls
Hello, my name is __________ and I’m a constituent (if you are a constituent) calling from __________ (city or town).
Could I speak to your staff person who handles Afghanistan, or someone who can tell me the Senator’s position on proposals to send more U.S. troops? (If no such staff person available, leave a message urging the Senator to speak out against sending more troops and to introduce legislation against an increase in troops.)
I’m very concerned about press reports that President Obama may decide to send 40,000 or more troops to Afghanistan.
Can you tell me if Senator ____ has spoken out or taken a position against sending more troops to Afghanistan, or plans to do so?
(Include any answer in your reportback. If staff refers you to a press clip or their website, and you find something stating a position, post the URL to the No Escalation website in your reportback.)
I urge your to introduce legislation in opposition to sending more troops to Afghanistan and in favor of an exit strategy or a timetable for withdrawal. Will the Senator consider introducing legislation in opposition to a troop increase?
(Report back what they say about introducing legislation.)