I do a lot of canvassing.
I make it a point to knock on the doors of Democrats only. In this current political climate, I do not think I will change anyone’s mind. But I do knock a lot of doors.
When someone answers, I identify myself as a volunteer for the Democratic Party. I ask the person if they are willing to answer a few quick questions about voting. Most people say “yes” to this.
“Are you still registered as a Democrat?” This is an easy one – I have rarely had a person say “no.” If they do say “no”, I thank them, and am on my way.
“Do you plan to vote on April 23 and November 5?” Only occasionally will someone say “no.” Again, an easy one.
“Do you plan to vote for Biden?” Here, some people hedge. If they say “no” or “maybe”, again, I thank them, and I am on my way. If they do plan to vote for Biden, I continue.
“Do you plan to vote for Bob Casey for Senator, and for other Democrats up and down the ballot?” If I have gotten this far, the answer is usually “yes.”
“Do you vote in-person, or by mail?” If they say “in-person” I ask if they need help getting to the polls. If they say “by mail” I ask if they need assistance getting a mail-in ballot application.
“One last question,” I ask. “What issues are important to you?” Note the this is really the first open-ended question I have asked. It is here people tend to open up a bit. I have heard answers ranging from reproductive rights to just plain “stopping Trump.” I keep taking notes until the person stops.
I then offer any literature I have with me, and thank the voter. It is amazing how many of them thank me in return – friendly faces in politics are at a premium nowadays. The whole interaction takes about three minutes, and I am on my way to the next house.