I have to agree with Hunter and I've heard this from several politicians and friends who are lobbiest. Email hits them like a flood and they on the whole don't take it with the same import that they do when a person takes the time to actually write and mail a letter. It was suggested that it be typed/printed - most of us know our handwriting is awful anyway - and signed. They actually seem to place more value in that than email or phone calls for some reason. Hell, take a morning off of work if you can and go see them on the hill.

Still, that being said, if email is the way you can find time to contact them, it's still something. I know that I was surprised when Nancy Spence took the time to write me back the first time. Now she and I exchange email at least once a week or so.