Congressman Huizenga shuts voicemail amid angry voter calls

A Republican congressman in Michigan, Bill Huizenga, has stopped allowing voicemails in his office due to an overwhelming number of angry calls. This change has upset many voters in his district. On March 19, protesters gathered at Huizenga's office in Portage. They demanded he oppose federal policies that could harm the Great Lakes. Some signs asked, “Where’s Bill?” showing frustration with his lack of engagement with constituents. Huizenga's office switched to a phone system that requires callers to use a menu to submit comments online instead of leaving voicemails. This change was made partly due to an increase in call volume and some threats against staff, according to his spokesperson. Many of the calls Huizenga receives come from people outside his district. Activist groups have been encouraging people to contact their representatives, especially since Donald Trump became president. Critics say that Huizenga’s new system prevents voters from sharing their views directly. Despite these concerns, Huizenga's office claims this change helps them assist constituents needing help with federal agencies. Since Trump took office, the office has responded to over 30,000 inquiries. However, critics argue that Huizenga is not engaging with a wide range of constituents. They believe it is important for congress members to have open discussions with everyone they represent. On the day of the protest, no staff members greeted attendees, prompting them to leave letters through a mail slot. The office operates by appointment only, which has raised further concerns among the protesters.