Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Would we only go to only Democratic homes?
A: Not necessarily. We have several options for selecting the target voters, so that teams can decide which ones they want to canvass. Your team may want to include “Undeclared” (what some people call “Independent)” homes along with Democrats. Your team leader will also be able sort the list to focus on infrequent voters, more active Democrats, or some combination.
Q: Could something like this be done over the phone?
A: There have certainly been successful phone campaigns using this conversation approach. We do not plan to host phone bank training in our project, but our General Resources list includes other organizations that do so.
Q: Could you make this available somehow for others to watch at other times?
A: The overview video is available for anyone to watch at conversationcanvassing24.org. A link to the 10 training videos is sent upon registration. These videos can be watched at any time, at the canvasser’s own pace. After that, you move on to the interactive Zoom workshop, which is the second phase of training.
Q: Do you give people talking points on different local or state issues if we choose a particular topic—or if these are brought up by the person you are visiting?
A: The link to Issue Resources provides background information and talking points on a variety of topics.
Q: Why does the MiniVAN app ask me to allow my information to be shared when I'm creating my password? Please explain.
A: This means that you give permission for the information you enter in the MiniVAN app to be shared with the main database, NGP VAN/ Votebuilder. If you create an ActionID password on a browser, this permission allows that account to be shared with the app. It allows the app to talk to the browser account. It also allows administrative users on the VAN (that is, NHDP employees charged with managing the database) to review the data and approve it for the database.
Q: How do you follow-up after the conversation at the door?
A: Sometimes we simply ask if we can return at a later date to continue the conversation and, if needed, provide information. We also recommend that teams maintain their own list of contacts and notes on possible follow-up, in addition to data entered in the app for the statewide Votebuilder database.
Q: How is the actual canvassing organized? How will we know who to go out with and where to canvass?
A: Each town, region, or organization will have one or more people who will serve as leaders. The website has a leaders’ kit that includes instructors for cutting turfs and setting criteria for individuals to be canvassed. The leader will help connect volunteers with partners and turfs.
Q: I'm listed as undeclared. I consider myself as an Independent with Democratic leanings. Am I welcome?
A: Yes! Many people choose to be undeclared. CCNH began as a project with Grafton County Democrats, but we invite other organizations with shared values to use our methodology as well.
Q: How does your program compare to others like the Deep Canvassing Institute, Dirt Road Revival, Changing the Conversation, or Bridging the Gap?
A: All deep canvassing training models share the same basic premises and similar methods. The difference in programs is primarily in format—whether training is online or in-person or some combination, how much time the training takes, and the level of support for volunteers. Some focus on one issue; Planned Parenthood’s Bridging the Gap program is an example. Others, such as Changing the Conversation, focus primarily on electoral politics. All are valuable and grounded in the same values, so it’s your choice.
