For those who watched results from the Florida gubernatorial primaries this week, you may have noticed that a progressive candidate took a surprise win on the Democratic side. What you may not have known, since we all live in North Carolina, is that Mr. Gillum was vastly outspent by his primary rivals. I don’t have exact numbers, but I have seen reports that two of his rivals spent over $30 million, and another spent over $15 million. Mr. Gillum won despite spending less than $7 million.
How? Voter enthusiasm and face-to-face voter contact. Research has shown that the power of a face-to-face conversation about voting and/or a specific candidate is FAR greater than that of any television ad. Why don’t more candidates spend their money on canvassing then? Because it requires so much more effort than paying an ad company to prepare a slick 30-second spot. It requires volunteers, and time commitment, and the courage to knock on strangers’ doors. But it works.
If we are going to defeat constitutional amendments and elect strong Democratic judges along with our local legislative candidates, we are going to need to run up the score in this Democratic stronghold. We need all hands on deck, which means we need you. Sign up to help us canvass on September 8 or September 9. It’s a fun experience and a crucial event in getting out the vote. Don’t miss it!
Durham Precinct 35.3 