Shutdown Frustration: Venting to Lawmakers 101

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO)  —  Chances are this week, you’ve gotten into some pretty heated debates about the government shutdown. But, are you taking your concerns to the right people? We have a crash course in getting the attention of your elected officials .”

League of Women Voters of the Columbia are president, Martha Roblee, says, in the Midlands, for example, Lindsey Graham, Joe Wilson, Tim Scott, and Jim Clyburn are points of contact for concerns and questions about the happenings on Capitol Hill.

“You can reach them by email, phone, regular mail or you can contact the office and make an appointment to meet with them or one of their staff members,” said Roblee.

She advises, when contacting them to get things of your chest, good or bad, proceed appropriately.

‘These are people you put into office so be respectful.  “They deserve respect whether you support their position or not support their position.”

Restaurant manager and first time home buyer, Avista James says she will be more careful choosing candidates in the future.

“As voters, we really need to be informed about who we’re putting in there,” said James.

She blames lawmakers for the government shutting down, which eventually led to her federal rural housing loan being stopped in its tracks. The United States Department of Agriculture, the agency that approved the loan, closed its doors and that made the closing date on her brand new house null and void.

“Do the research and see what they’ve done in the past to see if they will put others before themselves,” said James.

Martha Roblee agrees, and says doing your homework and holding the legislature accountable could produce results.

“You will get an email reply or may get a written letter.”

Here are two websites Roblee recommends that could help point you in the right direction: lwvcolumbiasc.org and scvotes.org.