Several years ago, when I became a committee person in Ward 55, I promised myself I would canvass my division six times per year.
I knew that it might take some of the neighbors a bit of time to warm up to me, but I figured with sustained effort, even the most jaded of Democratic voters would eventually open their doors to me.
I canvassed my division today, and the universe smiled. Doors opened. Voters took my literature, and promised to show up November 3. It was beautiful weather, and many residents had their doors and windows already open.
When you repeatedly canvass a division, you get to know it pretty well. You know which retirees are home during the day; who works nights; and who is never home. For some reason, between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm, lots of people were home — some which I had never met before.
The best moment came when a voter I know opened his door, and grinned at me. I gave him the literature, and told him I would see him on Election Day. In the past, he has scowled, but he knows me now. He’s not a chatter, so I don’t waste his time — but he does vote. I expect to see him at the polls.
As ward leader, I have a number of responsibilities. But I am also a committee person. I have a division. It’s my job to turn out that vote. I think it’s important I keep doing that.