Why Calling Your Representatives Still Matters (Yes, Even If They're Democrats)

My response to you if your representatives are on the "right" side of things...

My representative is a Democrat. My representative is progressive. My representative “votes the right way.”

So should I still bother calling?

100% YES.

If you’re reading this, you probably care deeply about protecting civil liberties, reproductive justice, and the rights of marginalized communities. You likely vote, support organizations doing the work, and maybe even educate others on these issues. But here’s the thing: calling your Congressional representatives—yes, even if they’re Democrats who align with your values—remains one of the most impactful ways to amplify the causes you care about.

Here’s why your voice is vital:

Gives Them Back-Up

Even the most progressive representatives face competing priorities. By calling their offices to voice support for specific bills or issues, you remind them that their constituents demand action. When a representative’s staff logs dozens (or hundreds) of calls on a particular topic, it strengthens their hand in advocating for those policies. It shows that voters are paying attention and that there’s grassroots backing for their stance.

For example, when a senator speaks in favor of reproductive justice, having a mountain of constituent calls to reference lends credibility to their position in legislative debates.

Keeps Them Accountable

No politician—regardless of party—should get a free pass. Democratic representatives need to be reminded that their base expects them to go beyond symbolic gestures. Calling their offices ensures they stay engaged and actively champion the policies that protect vulnerable communities.

For instance, supporting abortion access isn’t just about voting the right way; it’s about introducing legislation, fighting for funding, and mobilizing coalitions. Calls from constituents keep that fire lit.

Your Call Matters

Here’s something many people don’t realize: when you call a representative’s office, your message doesn’t disappear into the void. Staffers log the details—what you care about, where you stand, and how many others feel the same. These logs inform decision-making and guide the representative’s actions.

If you call about reproductive justice, your message may become part of the reason your representative signs on to co-sponsor a new bill or pushes for committee hearings on the issue. Every call adds weight.

Amplify Local Voices on National Issues

Your representatives are your direct line to national politics. When you advocate for issues like LGBTQ+ rights, voting protections, or immigration reform, you connect local perspectives to broader movements. Even if a representative already supports these issues, your call helps frame them as urgent and necessary in your district or state.

Think of your call as contributing to a collective voice that echoes far beyond your hometown.

To Thank Them

Progressive representatives often face immense pressure from the other side. Whether it’s obstructionist tactics or outright misinformation campaigns, your support helps them stay resilient. Imagine being in a contentious committee meeting or a tight vote—knowing that your constituents have your back makes all the difference. Even if your representative has voted the way you want them to, a call to tell them “thank you” goes a long way.

Don’t believe me? Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez posted yesterday on Bluesky, in regards to the vote on H.R. 9495:

On “The Rachel Maddow Show” last night, Rachel Maddow showed how outreach matters - when H.R. 9495 originally came up for a vote last April, it PASSED with only 11 dissenters. But over 150 organizations spoke out against the bill and engaged their supporters to call their representatives, and just last week, when the bill came up again for a vote, 145 representatives voted AGAINST the bill. That’s a swing of 134 voters - all because of the collective voices of the people.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Your Voice

Calling your representatives may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but it’s a ripple that creates waves. It’s how we ensure that progressive values stay at the forefront and that our leaders remain steadfast in their commitments. So pick up the phone, add your voice to the chorus, and keep fighting the good fight.

Because change starts with us—and it starts with a call.

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