I contacted my congressman's office about 15-16 days prior to travel and they asked for my proof of travel, so I sent them my e-ticket. Once they submitted it, the passport agency wrote back to them and said my renewal would be moved into the queue for congressional inquiries by date of travel. It seems to have worked. They (congressman's office) emailed me yesterday with a tracking number and I can see via USPS informed delivery that my passport is on its way to me. Whew!