Last Minute Campaign Tips from AM Staff in the Field

It’s a crazy time of year. Campaigns are making their last minute pitches to voters, absentee and early voting has begun. There’s light at the end of the tunnel! Just make sure it’s actually the end of the tunnel, not an oncoming train.

To keep you on track for this last week, take the advice of our staff and finish strong!

Matt Batzel: Keep your eye on the ball

Focus on executing your plan. You spent time developing that campaign plan. Trust it. You can only control what you can control. Don’t waste your time worrying about things out of your control.

Angela Kelley: Don’t let supporters get complacent

In the final days before your election, focus direct effort toward those areas that favor your campaign because you need to make sure your base turns out heavily. Many voters, especially in off-year elections, need that final push and personal contact to remind them to turn out in November.

Nate Nelson: Lit drops aren’t enough

If you’re taking the time to walk door to door in a neighborhood, actually ring the bell and talk to the voter rather than just dropping lit at their door. It doesn’t add that much time to the stop and it is A LOT more effective especially in local races that get less publicity.

Lonny Leitner: Bundle up

GOTV happens during the final phase of the campaign where you are turning out the vote for the candidates that you support.  Probably the most effective way at the local level to turn out supporters is by knocking on their doors. When going out in the fall in some parts of the country, like in Minnesota for example you have to be prepared for the cold weather and dress appropriately.  We’ve already had snow in Minnesota, so having boots, a warm coat, hat, and gloves are much needed.

Jennifer DeJournett: Your friends will forget

Your friends will forget to vote or assume their vote will not matter. It is very important for you in the final days to tell your friends you need them vote and then ask them to find 2 other friends to vote. With races down to the wire, yes you have to remind people – often.

Ned Ryun: Don’t coast through Election Day

Don’t forget, the majority of voters still vote on Election Day. GOTV must continue through the polls’ close. Leave no stone unturned. Check precinct reporting at noon and adjust your strategies based on your turnout models. I have seen Congressional races decided by 125 votes. Last year in Virginia a state legislature race was decided by a coin flip after the voting came back tied. Don’t coast through the finish line.