By Jamie Lyons-Eddy
Deputy Director, Voters Not Politicians
Why do we knock doors?
Because there is no better way to reach voters!
Having a face-to-face conversation that ends with making a voting plan is the best way to turn out sporadic voters. There’s nothing like a real, in-person conversation, especially with volunteers like ours, who are well-informed, friendly, and passionate about democracy.
The voters on our lists are likely supporters of Proposal 2 and pro-voter candidates, but are unlikely to turn out to vote in a midterm election without some key information and encouragement. Over and over, we find that the voters we are talking to are not aware of the proposal or many of the candidates we are talking about, even our incumbent Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson who was recently on the cover of Time Magazine as one of the country’s foremost election defenders. VNP volunteers educate these voters and help them plan for election day to make sure their voices are heard.
Sign up here to start knocking doors!
Our volunteers across the state report that this volunteer work is rewarding and energizing!
Here are few examples:
“We had some really good conversations as there are many who are ready to hear about Prop 2 and why you are so passionate about preserving and ENHANCING access to the ballot for registered eligible voters! And the new literature with pro-voter candidates is awesome! Can’t wait to get my yard sign!”
Kathleen Curell, Midland
“I had said that I wouldn’t canvass this time around but alas, couldn’t resist and did so this past weekend. I wish to ENCOURAGE it. 100% of the voters I spoke to in Holland had NO KNOWLEDGE of Prop 2 and 100% said they would vote for it. So, I’ll be back out getting these voters out will make a difference.”
Dan Berland, Ann Arbor
“I was a little bit conflicted about canvassing, but my experience has been invigorating. The vast majority of people I’ve talked to have not heard of Prop 2, and are supportive of it when I explain what it’s about. I feel like I am making a difference educating folks on the proposal.”
Cheryl Huckins, Plymouth
I’ve been seeing the same thing when I’ve knocked doors these past two weekends. The vast majority of voters I spoke with were not aware of the ways this election will affect democracy and voting rights, and genuinely appreciated the information. And making a voting plan helped the voters I talked to sort through the nuts and bolts of casting their ballot so they can make their voices heard.
We have a solid list, but we need your help if we are going to reach our goal: 150,000 voters by election day. Please sign up here or find a canvass launch here and plan to knock at least 1-2 shifts a week.
Come election day, you’ll be glad you were part of the solution.
