Take Action for Science: Meet With Your Members of Congress | Science Societies
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Take Action for Science: Meet With Your Members of Congress

Meet with your members of Congress at home

Make your voice heard

One of the most effective ways to influence public policy is to meet directly with your elected officials. Members of Congress often are harried and overbooked when in Washington. Interacting with lawmakers back home can often be the best strategy to get "quality time" with key decision makers.

Whether you're a student, researcher, or agronomists, your perspective matters. Members of Congress want to hear from constituents who are directly impacted by federal science programs and policies.

You don’t need to be a policy expert—just share why your work matters to your community and the country. To learn more, read this article in August 2025 CSA News magazine.

How to schedule a meeting

  1. Identify your legislators. Use this tool to find your two senators and one representative.
  2. Visit their website and locate the local district office contact info (usually at the bottom of the homepage).
  3. Call the local office and say you’d like to request a meeting to discuss agriculture, natural resources, or scientific research.
  4. Ask for 15 minutes with the member. If unavailable, request a meeting with the district director.
  5. Be flexible. Offer two possible dates/times. Follow up if you don’t hear back within a week.
  6. Let us know. After your meeting is confirmed, email @email so we can support and track your advocacy efforts.
  7. Do your research. Visit our Advocacy Toolkit (members only) to download talking points and leave-behind handouts.

Need help? Contact @email any time. We’re here to support you!
Want a printable PDF guide? Download one here.

scientist meets with person

Watch: What to expect in a meeting

This 7-minute video covers:

  • The roles of staff and members in meetings
  • What a typical district office visit is like
  • 10 tips for a successful advocacy conversation

Watch the 7-minute video »

Watch: Building relationships with lawmakers

In this short video, learn:

  • Who lawmakers listen to—and why
  • How to connect at local events
  • How to build trust with staff and members of Congress

Watch the 4-minute video »

Julie McClure

Expert advice from the field

“If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.”
– Julie McClure, Agricultural Policy Expert

August offers an opportunity to advocate for science
Learn how to connect with lawmakers during the congressional recess—from proposing site visits to crafting compelling, accessible messages. Agricultural policy expert Julie McClure shares practical strategies for researchers, students, and CCAs.

“Try to bring the dollars and cents home about the work you're doing—that’s always going to be really helpful in a meeting.”

➤ Read the full CSA News article »