Stewing in political central like we do, there’s never any shortage of shop talk. But have you ever called your Senator’s office? I’d bet even in this town you could ask 100 people and 99 never have.
The reality is that it’s pretty easy and you don’t need to be an expert on the issue you’re calling about. There’s some intern on the other end with a chatty voice and you just say you’re a Virginia (or MD or whatever) resident and you’d like the Senator to oppose/support blah blah blah. They might ask you for clarification if you mention a bill and aren’t specific – in my case I initially said “the communications bill” and the nice lady said “There’s several communications bills – do you have something specific in mind?” and I clarified “Ted Stevens’ communications bill” – but they won’t harass you if you say no, I am just for/against this.
If you’re a Virginia resident – and a bit of a tech nerd or just someone who loves their Tivo – you can try for yourself by calling about the broadcast flag and proposed government technology committee. Senator Allen’s office is reachable at 202-224-4024. Ipaq can give you a brief explanation of why they think it’s a bad idea, as well as a list of other senators on the Judiciary committee if you’re not living in VA. Sorry DC and MD, this one’s just us (for now).
This post appeared in its original form at DC Metblogs
Well I used to say something in my profile about not quite being a “tinker, tailor, soldier, or spy” but Tom stole that for our about us page, so I guess I’ll have to find another way to express that I am a man of many interests.
Hmm, guess I just did.
My tastes run the gamut from sophomoric to Shakespeare and in my “professional” life I’ve sold things, served beer, written software, and carried heavy objects… sometimes at the same place. It’s that range of loves and activities that makes it so easy for me to love DC – we’ve got it all.
