I'm very proud to be a democrat. Sometimes our candidates piss me off (ALOT). I get annoyed with personal attacks on other democrats, when they miss the big picture and dwell on a single issue/event/statement. I dislike the practical re-election concerns they face. Sometimes I want the tent smaller (pro-life, against gay marriage, etc), but I still try to welcome them anyway when they are not the deciding vote.
I believe in the ACLU, our constitution, helping others, making this planet a better place, drinking clean water, treating those with less education and less money than me with respect, understanding that people are not bad, but have bad choices or were raised with poor values. I believe that everyone should be given the opportunities and education to take advantage of their skills and talents. It is those beliefs that have caused me to be a Democrat.
I think 2008 is going to be a very important year if we are going to reclaim our government, restore pride in our country, improve our long term economy and save our planet. I've been trying to figure out how can I help elect good democrats and discuss some grass root options below
List of things we can do on a grass roots level
1. Volunteer at a local campaign HQ generally call first and say you would like to volunteer and they will tell you times you can come by. They offen need help with mailings, phone calls, data entry, putting up signs, organizing fundraisers, campaign rallys and events, house parties, helping schedule the candidate, responding to letters and requests and speach writing. Daily kos Users especially can help with position research and opposition research since we know the internet.
2. Donate money. Most campaign websites will take money online and you can always use ACT Blue. I prefer Act Blue since it is easy to spread a donation out amoung several candidates. It is never too early to make a donation. The earlier the better since early money goes towards polling, fundraising which yeild an even bigger return later, mailings, and the important part of organizing grass root efforts early. Later donations get you about 1 second of a commercial (which is important, but less effective). If you are looking for a first candidate, I would recommend Linda Stender (NJ - 7). She came EXTREMELY Close to pulling a major upset of a right wing republican without a lot a party backing since it was a long shoot. She is running again and I think will win since everyone know she can pull it off with that extra push. Donate to Linder Stender NJ-7
3. Talk to People. Talk up your candidate to friends, neighbors, family and co-workers. Co-workers only if appropriate and allowable - don't lose a job or relationships because of politics. Most importantly, remind people when to register and remind them to vote. Personal campaigning will always be more effective than an advertisement. Remember when talking up your candidate, you informally represent them so don't talk the other candidate down. focus on why yours is better for the voter. If you don't know your candidates exact position on some issue, refer the potential voter to the campaign HQ. Many campaigns will even have orientations to teach you how to talk to people about a candidate - call campaign HQ.
4. Drive people to polls. You can do this informally or work with a campaign HQ or local Democratic HQ. You can contact local nursing homes as well. I've driven voters in about 4 elections and it is my favorite thing to do. Older people really appreciate it and have great stories about their voting experiences.
5. Host a fundraiser. You can make a theme or hold it on a debate night or invite the candidate if it is a large enough event. I'm going to hold a couple of low dollar ($25 or $50) events this summer for friends. I'm not going to make a lot of money, but will hopefully sell the candidate to potential voters who will then spread the word to their friends and family Donate to Linder Stender NJ-7
6. Host a house party. Dont' collect donations, just invite people over to watch a debate, hand out campaign literature and discuss the elections, the issues and your candidate. If you are having a lot of people, try to invite the candidate or campaign staff representatives to assist in selling the candidate.
7. Internet/blog. use blogs to spread the word about a good candidate, their events and positions. post comments and dairies. Go to campaign websites for idea's about how to help, rallies, fundraisers and positions. conduct research for compaign.
8. phone bank. Make calls on behalf of the campaign at organized phone banks. Many campaigns will give you lists that you can call from home now. I personally hate phone banking. I've been doing it since I was about 14 and Hate it. But some people are so good at it! If this is your skills, it is valuable. Live calls are for more effective than recorded robocalls.
8. Represent - post bumper stickers on your car, bike, helmet, door. allow lawn signs in your yard. let me know the depth of support for a candidate.
9. Write letters to editor in support of candidate. write letters if you think reporting is lacking or baised and why.
Any other suggestions?? please comment on what you plan to do and why? I know right now it's a bit bitter with some people and their candidates, but soon will we all be on the same side after the primary and ready to work together and win at all level. EARLY PREPARATION WILL WIN THE BATTLE.
don't forget. Donate to Linder Stender NJ-7 She is a great candidate that could turn a red district blue!!!
WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?