In the past, I have worked for local candidates and knocked on doors for myself when I ran for office. Today, for the first time, I went canvassing for a Presidential candidate. I am no more excited by Obama-Biden than I was for Gore in 2000, but I am more worried. I was part of the group who thought the parties were too close, so it didn't really matter. The presidency of George W. Bush has changed that opinion. The next president matters.
Join me after the break for the results of the canvass and a challenge.
First, we were hitting likely democratic voters, so it was fairly easy turf. However, I was walking in a highly republican town/county, and several of the names on my list were in the Independent but persuadable category. It was a hot day, 91 when I finished, and only about 1/2 the people were home. Those that were home varied from undecided to strong Obama supporters. Only one person thought Palin was a good choice, and he was a retired minister/political science professor who was strongly in favor of Obama.
Everyone knew who McCain was, and what struck me most was that they use to have a positive view of him. The best comment came from two young people I know from teaching and coaching. They commented that when they watch McCain commercials they seem to be for Obama because they are about change. If you watch them without sound, they really seem like Obama ads.
The real reason for writing this diary is the challenge. Iowa should be a good state for Obama. Yet, we are knocking doors in parts of the reddest parts of Iowa because every vote counts. What have you done to help the ticket? What will you do the next 67 days?
We can't let any more time go without working the vote.
Go Obama-Biden!