Your Title (i.e. Joe Smith – Secretary of Defense)

Your Department/Agency Name

1234 Bureaucracy Lane

Washington, DC 01234

(202) 555-12344

Mr./Madam President	Today’s Date

In this first paragraph, introduce the major issue(s) of concern that your department or agency is focusing on, and very briefly introduce what you are wanting the president to press Congress for (more money, additional staff, a new program, etc.). Be direct and to the point. Remember – the president is extremely busy and his/her time is valuable.

In this second paragraph, explain what your department/agency is currently doing about these issue(s).

In this third paragraph, lay out your key objectives/goals. What do you specifically want to see happen as a result of your request?

Use this fourth paragraph to explain to (and persuade) the president why he/she should give your proposal priority, and why he/she spend time and effort pushing Congress to support it. This is where you will probably want to bring in facts, figures, and a few potent examples to make your point. If you are asking for more of something, explain why you need more (as opposed to simply making do with what you have had before).

Sincerely,

_______________________________

Type out your title and name here again.

If you have any additional facts/figures/info (like graphs, etc.), note them here, and attach them behind this summary. Make sure to print two copies – one for yourself, and one for the president.