united states






 

Question by  apple (447)

How do you address a representative (as in a member of the House of Representatives)?

If the rep's name is John Smith, is it Representative Smith? Mr. Smith? Or is it appropriate to call them by their first name, if you're an adult too?

 
+7

Answer by  SomethingElse (68)

Either form of address is conventional; one reason to avoid addressing someone (such as a representative named Smith) as Mr. would be because he might have a doctoral degree or some other sort of title; Representative is probably the best honorific to use. However, what's most important is to let you know if you are their constituent.

 
+7

Answer by  foo (23)

You personally address John Smith as "Representative Smith" or "Mr. Representative". In writing a letter, write to "The Hon. John Smith".

 
+6

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

Address letters to "Representative Smith". Do not address another adult by their first name unless you know them personally and have their permission.

 
+6

Answer by  x14 (26)

The correct way to address a member of the House of Representatives is Representative Last Name. For example John Smith would be Representative Smith.

Reply by apple (447):
That's what I thought, but then it felt so bulky and formal that I second guessed it.  add a comment
 
+5

Answer by  tamkees (3203)

You should address him as Congressman Smith. If addressing an envelope, the name would change to The Honorable John Smith. You never address him by his first name.

 
+5

Answer by  jaclark586 (359)

You should address a Representative by the word Representative followed by their last name. If they are friendly and personable they will encourage you to address them by their first name. However, you should offer them the formality of title and last name as a sign or respect.

 
+5

Answer by  nefacess (115)

Usually, representatives are called Representative so-and-so. If you are looking to be more respectful or formal, however, Mr. so-and-so is appropriate.

 
+4

Answer by  Jolly (22)

I address a representative in a member of the House by their first name because all people like to call them by their first name. The first name is appropriate.

 
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