DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’ve recently left elected office. How and when do I use “The Honorable” and “Senator”?
GENTLE READER: Never.
Lest you squeal in protest, Miss Manners assures you that she is not trying to deprive you of your honors. But these are for others to confer. In writing to you, the correct address is “The Honorable,” followed by your full name and no other title; you should be addressed as “Senator” with your surname.
But unless you are writing or talking to yourself, you should modestly refrain.