I went to the cookout for Obama event this weekend In Gastonia, NC.

[SIMPLYB1980]

We had a great time and everyone there, to my great relief, were very friendly and supportive of this Clinton primary supporter. We got to listen to a veteran of the vietnam war talk to us about the many reasons why we should vote for Obama. I was also pleasantly surprised that in the very red county of Gastonia NC their were around 200 people who came out.

I also signed up to go door to door this Saturday for Obama. I've never done this before. In my first election all I did was vote for Gore, and it was the same for Kerry. Durring this election I have been blessed with a job that allowed me to donate to the Clinton campaign. Since Obama took the nomination I have switched my donations to him. I had decided that was as much as I would do.... But after the disgraceful RNC convention, and the truly terrifying statements made by McCain and Palin, I have decided I can not stand idley by while these Facist try to lie their way into the Whitehouse. I hope in my small way I can help to turn NC blue. I know it's an uphill battle but I will do what I can. I just hope I can keep my cool when confronted with the racists I know live in my area.

I guess they will send me out with someone who has done this before, but any advice would be appreciated.

[FrenchieCat]

1. Yeah.......

:woohoo:

Just know Obama's stances as well as you can learn them!

And remember that if you must describe Sarah Palin, the operative word is "scary".

Thank you for helping us save our nation! It is deeply appreciated! :patriot:

[SIMPLYB1980]

6. Thank you Frenchie that means a lot to me.

Since I cleared my head after the primary I have enjoyed your informative posts. I think DU has provided me with all the ammo I need. Now time to actually use it!

[Beaverhausen]

2. Knocking on doors can be daunting, but it can also be great

I have had some wonderful conversations with really interesting people doing it.

I would go to the Obama website and find some key points to stress to the voters in your area - economy, education, tax cuts and the war are probably the best to learn the fine points of his plans.

[SIMPLYB1980]

7. We've had so many mill closings around here the economy could be the best way to go.

That's where I plan to start.

[Beaverhausen]

11. Try to get a good 5-7 talking points down

and get an 'elevator sppech' - a speech you can give in about 15 seconds. Then fill in if the person gives you the time.

[Shine]

3. Good for you! I salute your efforts.

:patriot:

No advice from me about going door-to-door. I've never done it either, I've only done phone banking in the office.

:hi: Good luck!

[Beaverhausen]

4. One more thing - you will come across people who you know you won't win over

just cut your losses and move on to the next house.

[knixphan]

5. I'll be in the fight too (Heading to Charlotte soon)

I'll be doing the cross country jaunt from CA to help blue NC up...

Not as familiar with the demos, so I'll have to do the research on Obama-central. In general, my philosophy with any public persuasion is 'carry the party with you'. Everybody loves joining a party. We're happy supporters, singing while we work.

Also, Canvassing is awesome. You Rock!
:yourock:

[SIMPLYB1980]

8. Charlotte is one of the most liberal places in NC, glad you will be helping them GOTV!

Hope you have a safe trip and welcome to NC!

[knixphan]

13. Oh it is?

Great to know...I definitely look forward to helping. Felt like staying put and turning CA even-deeper-blue is a waste of my boundless enthusiasm.

[TuxedoKat]

9. There is some good info on talking to voters in this thread

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x6946808

[SIMPLYB1980]

12. Thanks for the link.

[TheKentuckian]

10. Thank you for taking the battle to the Republicans

We will take them down with your help.

[democrattotheend]

14. Interesting - you're the opposite of me in terms of donating/canvassing

If Hillary had gotten the nomination, I would have voted for her and canvassed for her but I'm not sure I would have donated (assuming she opted out of public financing). I'll canvass for anyone with a "D" next to their name but I've got to really respect a candidate to part with my hard-earned money. But my coworker is the opposite...he gives money but will only canvass for candidates he's really passionate about.

In any event, I'm really glad you decided to do both. This election is too important and I know it's tough to shift gears after a tough primary (I was a Deaniac in 2004 so I can relate), but at the end of the day it's about the people whose lives are affected by these elections, not about the candidates, and I am glad you recognize that. Welcome to the cause and good luck canvassing. let us know how it goes.