As election day approaches, the success of your campaign hinges on turning out your supporters. Effective voter mobilization can be the difference between victory and defeat. Here’s how you can ensure your supporters not only intend to vote but actually make it to the polls:
1. Relational Organizing
Engage directly with your supporters through personalized phone calls and texts. Give your supporters the steps and tools to help them connect with their personal networks.
Relational organizing cuts through the noise with direct contact friend-to-friend, giving potential supporters the opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns they might have about your candidate.
As election day approaches, you can organize teams of volunteers to reach out to likely supporters, offering them information on polling locations and hours. Be sure to equip your volunteers with talking points and FAQs to ensure they can handle any conversation.
2. Clear, Motivating Messaging
Distribute clear, concise instructions on how to vote, and the contrast between the candidates. Include information on polling locations, what identification is needed, and how to complete a mail-in ballot.
Use multiple channels – emails, texts, phone calls, social media, and your campaign website – to ensure your message reaches all supporters. You should also create a list of frequently asked questions about voting and distribute it widely. An informed voter is more likely to follow through.
3. Encourage supporters to make a plan to vote
In the days leading up to the election, send reminders via email and text messages to reinforce the importance of voting and provide any last-minute information or updates. Emphasize the urgency and impact of every single vote. Use a tone that conveys excitement and importance without sounding overly urgent or desperate.
Encourage supporters to make a plan for how they will vote (early, absentee, in-person), and then follow-up with them to make sure they executed on that plan.
4. Rides to the Polls
You thought “drive” was in the title just for branding? Nope — literally drive people to the polls. Arrange transportation for voters who might have difficulties getting to polling places. This can be particularly effective in areas with limited public transportation. Partner with local ride-share companies or organize a network of volunteers to provide rides. You can also encourage supporters to carpool with friends, family, or neighbors. Not only does this make voting more accessible, but it also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
In states with mail balloting, you can collect ballots from friends and family to be sure they are delivered to a polling location — but be certain to follow local laws and regulations as some states have limitations on how many ballots one person can deliver at a time.
How will YOU drive your supporters to the polls?
Turning out your supporters to vote is crucial for your campaign’s success. By leaning on your core supporters to connect with voters relationally, providing clear messaging and information, and encouraging supporters to make a plan to vote, you can drive your supporters to the polls and secure the votes you need!
If you’re looking for help on effectively engaging your supporters, try out ContactDrive – the #1 CRM for politics. Our platform allows you to efficiently segment your audience, tailor your message, and ensure your supporters are ready and eager to head to the polls.