1. Materials to Carry

• Voter Registration Forms: Ensure people know how to register to vote, if they haven’t already. Have forms for registering or updating voter information.
• Absentee Ballot/Vote by Mail Forms: Carry forms to encourage people to vote by mail, along with instructions on how to submit them.
• Precinct Information: Provide information about their local precinct, including voting locations, times, and maps if needed.
• Candidate Information: Have pamphlets or flyers detailing the candidate’s background, positions on key issues, and any endorsements. Make sure the information is clear and easy to understand.
• Issue Briefs: Include a one-pager or flyer summarizing the candidate's positions on local and national issues that matter to the community. Highlight how these issues will impact voters directly.
• Local Volunteer Opportunities: Include information about how voters can get involved by joining local precinct meetings, volunteering for the campaign, or attending rallies/events.
• Contact Information: Carry a list of important phone numbers, email addresses, and social media links for the campaign or candidate. Make sure voters know how to contact the campaign for any questions or concerns.

2. Key Talking Points for Walkers

• Introduction:
  Start by introducing yourself and stating why you’re knocking on doors (i.e., to promote the candidate and encourage civic participation).
• Voter Participation:
  Encourage people to vote and explain why it's important to vote in every election, including local elections. Mention how every vote counts and can influence local and national policy.
• Vote by Mail:
  Explain how people can request absentee ballots and how voting by mail works. Offer them forms to help them sign up for mail-in voting, especially if they have mobility issues or can't make it to the polls.
• Candidate Information:
  Share the candidate’s background and main goals. Discuss the candidate’s stances on key local issues like public safety, education, healthcare, or the economy, depending on the campaign focus. Be prepared to answer questions about the candidate’s position.
• Precinct and Polling Information:
  Provide information about local precincts, including polling locations, hours, and any relevant changes (e.g., new voting methods). Carry printed maps or flyers with this information.
• Encouraging Precinct Participation:
  Let voters know how they can get involved in their local precinct. Whether it's attending precinct meetings, joining events, or volunteering to support the candidate, make it clear how they can actively participate.
• Importance of Local Elections:
  Emphasize the power of local elections, explaining that local government officials impact residents' daily lives. Encourage them to vote not only for the candidate but also for local measures or representatives.

3. Tips for Engaging Voters

• Be Respectful of Their Time:
  Keep your conversation short and to the point. Respect if someone isn’t interested or doesn't want to engage; thank them for their time and move on.
• Build Rapport:
  Be friendly, approachable, and attentive. Ask open-ended questions like "What issues are most important to you in this election?" to understand their concerns and guide the conversation.
• Offer Information:
  If someone is unsure about the candidate or issues, offer written materials like pamphlets or flyers. Mention your willingness to answer any follow-up questions.
• Encourage Conversation:
  Politely ask voters what issues matter most to them. Listen attentively and relate those issues to the candidate's positions when appropriate.
• Provide Clear Next Steps:
  If a voter expresses interest in voting by mail, direct them to the necessary forms and make sure they understand how to complete and submit them. Also, encourage them to share the information with others in the neighborhood.
• Follow-up and Reminders:
  If possible, remind people about key voting dates, including early voting days, absentee ballot submission deadlines, and Election Day. Provide contact info in case they need help or have questions.

4. Forms and Resources to Include

• Voter Registration Form:
  Provide a link to a digital form (or physical copy) for voter registration and updates to voter information.
• Absentee/Vote by Mail Form:
  Provide the official absentee ballot request form or instructions for obtaining a mail-in ballot.
• Precinct Information Flyer:
  A flyer that includes voting locations, precinct number, polling hours, and important dates.
• Candidate Information Flyer:
  A flyer or brochure with the candidate’s biography, goals, and endorsements.
• Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet:
  A form for residents to sign up to volunteer for the campaign, whether it's to make phone calls, attend events, or help with election day logistics.

5. Handling Objections or Negative Responses

• Be Prepared for Criticism:
  Not everyone will be supportive. If someone disagrees with the candidate, listen politely, but avoid engaging in heated debates. Offer to leave information, thank them for their time, and move on.
• Don’t Take It Personally:
  Remember, you’re representing the campaign and the candidate, not yourself. Stay positive and professional.

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