31 Oct 2022 Get Out The Vote In Lincoln County
Election Day is coming up and it’s time to focus on Get Out The Vote (GOTV)! Here’s a primer on what it is, why it’s important and how you can help.
What is GOTV?
Get Out The Vote — GOTV for short — is an effort to make sure that folks we know support Democrats submit their ballots early or at the polls on Election Day. GOTV happens every election in communities all across the country. This year in Lincoln County, we’ll knock more than 5,000 doors in six days.
What do you do for GOTV?
We will go to the homes of people we know support Democratic candidates and make sure they know how, when and where to vote. If they are voting via absentee ballot and have not yet returned it, we’ll let them know how to make sure their ballots are counted. If they are voting at the polls, we’ll make sure they have a voting plan by ensuring they know their polling location, the times their polls will be open and ask if they need a ride to the polls.
When is GOTV?
This year, GOTV is Thursday, Nov. 3-Tuesday, Nov. 8 (Election Day).
I’ve never done GOTV before. Will you teach me how?
YES. You’ll get a short training before your shift and we’ll answer all your questions. The easiest way to do it is with an app on your phone called MiniVan. It’s free and we’ll show you how to use it. If you can’t use MiniVan, we can get your a hard copy list of voters and addresses.
I’m afraid to talk to voters. Will you tell me what I should say?
YES. We’ll give you a script but this is the easiest canvassing you’ll ever do. You’re talking to voters who support Democratic candidates and just making sure they know how to vote. Easy peasy.
What do I need for GOTV?
Wear comfortable shoes, dress for Maine’s notoriously fast-changing weather, and bring a charged cell phone. We’ll supply water and snacks to keep you going while you’re knocking doors and homemade soups and treats when you return. AND, as if helping to save our democracy isn’t enough of a reward, you’ll also have a chance at winning a gift certificate to one of Lincoln County’s amazing restaurants!
I’m in! How do I sign up?
GREAT! Check out the schedule online, find a day and time that works for you, then sign up for a shift… or two! Most of our volunteers do more than one shift. Sign up here. Have a question before you sign up? Contact our Campaign Manager Howard Waxman at campaign@lincolncountydemocrats.com or (207) 563-1099.
How can I help turn out the vote if I can’t canvass?
If you’re not able to canvass for GOTV, you can help turn out the vote in a phone bank! Volunteers will be calling voters around Maine with the Maine Dems. You’ll receive training and will have a script to follow. Choose the days and times that work best for you! Sign up here. We might also need volunteers to drive our canvassers for GOTV. If you’re interested in driving, contact Howard at campaign@lincolncountydemocrats.com or (207) 563-1069.
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