How many phone calls does the average congressman get?

Question

Supposedly, going up to politicians in person and calling them on the phone are the most effective ways to get them to advocate for your causes. But how many phone calls do they get?

Does my phone call really make a difference in the sea of phone calls. Most importantly, how big is that sea? Please provide a source for your answer.

Answer 1

As a former hill intern, I would say 200 to 300 calls easily.  I cannot speak for local offices but, outside of meetings which included the entire staff (rare) and off hours...someone was always answering the phone. Messages were always written down and given to the appropriate legislative aid.  However, if you are actually expecting to talk to your congressman, it isn't going to happen. Every call is fielded through interns, reception, and legislative aids.

If a hot button issue is advertised and people are instructed to call their congressman, you can expect 1000 calls a day or more.

Answer 2

Congesman are taking naps all day!

Answer 3

The problem is the answering machine they got, an a choice called "erase"

Answer 4

I'm not sure about phone calls but Barbara Mikulski (D) Maryland Senator gets plenty of e-mail from me.