Last Friday, I had the opportunity to visit with the staff of my delegation (GA 4th: McKinney, Chambliss, Isakson) and that of OK's Tom Coburn (I'm originally from OK) about funding for the Nat'l Institutes of Health.
What I learned was...
Friday afternoons are slow. Admittedly, last Friday was especially slow, but, everyone I asked said "Why yes, it's usually quiet on a Friday afternoon." Several of them were playing computer games or just emailing friends.
Why should you care? Because it would appear that calling on a Friday afternoon increases your chances of receiving the undivided attention of whichever staffer answers the phone. They are smart kids (even if naive about their bosses and politics in general), they're tied to the desk, and they'd love to hear from a constituent.
Which brings me to another item I learned. You're not going to change their minds about the politics of their bosses. I met 12 staffers. I'd say the oldest was in her late 20s. Most of the ones I met have ZERO life experience. They know what they know and that's all they know. Most of them appeared to think they know more than they really know. But, that's an old fart being condescending. To a degree.
Be courteous when you talk to them. While waiting for my appointed slot, I saw staffers in the various offices field several calls. Staffers always took notes, even when they disagreed. However, it was obvious when they were being yelled at; very few notes were taken on those conversations.
So, call your Senators' and Congresspersons' DC offices this afternoon about whatever strikes your fancy (Alito cloture vote?). Remember that the person you're talking to is a person, just young and inexperienced. Be calm, be clear, and simply tell them what you want their boss to do. Make it simple. For instance
"Hello. Thanks for taking my call. I want Senator Smith to know that I do not think Judge Alito belongs on the Supreme Court. The unitary executive doctrine that he espouses is stips the Senate of its rightful powers and responsibilities. I understand the Senator may disagree with me, but I want him to know the thoughts of one of his constituents on this very important matter. Thank you again for your time." Then wait for the staffer to respond. Most of what I heard was some pablum that no doubt the head of each office has been told to say. Bear it quietly, then reiterate whatever your point was, emphasizing that you'd really appreciate the staffer letting the Senator know what your stance is, then end the conversation respectfully.
Then hit the bar. It is, after all, Friday afternoon! ;)
Links to phone numbers:
Senate: http://tinyurl.com/...
House: http://tinyurl.com/...