LONG ISLAND – Congressional offices are experiencing an unprecedented surge in constituent calls, as Americans voice concerns over cuts to federal programs and other Trump administration policies.
Many callers are encountering busy signals and voicemails, leading to questions about whether constituent services are being impacted.
Sharp Increase in Constituent Calls
Lawmakers report a dramatic rise in public engagement.
- Congressman Tom Suozzi said daily calls to his office have jumped tenfold, from 25 per day to over 250.
- Senate phone lines are seeing 1,600 calls per minute, compared to a normal volume of just 40 per minute.
Despite the influx, officials assure constituents that all voicemails are reviewed, and different staff members handle casework separately from policy-related calls.
“We keep track of the calls. I know exactly how many calls come in. It’s reported to me every day,” said Rep. Suozzi. “The number one issue they are contending about right now is Elon Musk. Number two is the funding freeze.”
Concerns Over Federal Cuts and Education Policy
New Yorkers are especially worried about:
- The Trump administration’s push to close the Department of Education
- Federal funding freezes impacting programs like Head Start
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand’s office confirmed an increase in calls and emphasized her commitment to fighting for constituents.
For assistance, New Yorkers can contact her office:
“New Yorkers who have been directly impacted by the recent actions of the Trump administration are encouraged to contact the senator’s office for help,” said Gillibrand’s spokesperson.
Public Engagement as a Political Force
Susan Lerner, executive director of Common Cause, views the surge in calls as a sign of civic engagement.
“People do not want to see their federal government taken over by a billionaire that nobody elected,” Lerner said. “They want their elected officials to assert our constitutional system of checks and balances.”
Leah Greenberg of Indivisible noted that each issue requires a separate call to be counted “for” or “against” a policy.
“Every so often, we see a large wave of phone calls, and that reflects a very large degree of alarm around the country, as we are seeing right now,” Greenberg said.
Republican Supporters Also Mobilizing
Not all calls are opposing administration policies. Trump supporters are also phoning in to support his Cabinet picks and agenda.
“We need everyone to call and make sure our voices are heard,” said Christi Kunzig of the Nassau County Young Republicans. “They know there is a mandate, and if you think you’re going to be a holdout, it’s not going to go well for you.”
Encouraging Continued Engagement
Activist Rachel Klein of Engage Long Island urges citizens to call their representatives daily.
“We want you to call every day. Regardless of if it’s a Democrat or Republican, these are American issues that affect all of us,” Klein said.
While Capitol switchboards are overwhelmed, those seeking urgent casework are advised to call district offices directly to avoid delays.
