Canvassing Primer

What is Canvassing?

• Canvassing is considered the gold standard for mobilizing voters because face-to-face interactions are the most effective way to connect with people.

• Canvassing in the final days and weeks before Election Day usually means knocking on the doors of voters who support your candidate or ballot question, and making a plan with them to actually go vote! Earlier in a campaign it might be knocking on doors of undecided voters and persuading them to support your candidate or ballot question.

• It builds community and makes your group stronger.

• It can be fun!

How Does Canvassing Work?

Most campaigns depend on volunteers knocking on doors to mobilize voter turnout. Typically there are regular meeting points for volunteers to connect with campaign staff or leaders of independent groups that organize canvasses. For example, every Saturday at 10am volunteers might meet at the campaign’s headquarters or the home of a volunteer. Volunteers will go through a brief orientation process and training so they’re prepared to knock on doors. You’ll get a “turf” packet with names and addresses of target voters, a map to help you determine the best route, a script that guides what you say, and a place to track the responses you get. Organize a carpool with friends and volunteers to go canvass!