Free script
Canvassing script for campaigns
A canvassing script is what a volunteer says at each door. This one takes about two minutes and works for a local race.
Free. No sign-up. Change the parts in [BRACKETS].
The script
Change the parts in [BRACKETS] for your race. Read it once, then talk like a neighbor.
Introduce yourself
Hi, is [VOTER NAME] home? My name is [YOUR NAME]. I'm a volunteer with [CANDIDATE] for [OFFICE].
Ask how they lean
On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 means you strongly support [CANDIDATE] and 5 means you strongly oppose, where are you right now?
If they say 1 or 2
Thank you! Can we count on you to vote on [ELECTION DAY]? Do you know where you'll vote?
If they say 3 (undecided)
What issue matters most to you this year? ... [CANDIDATE] has a plan on that: [ONE SENTENCE ON THE PLAN]. Would you be willing to give [HIM/HER/THEM] a look?
If they say 4 or 5
Thanks for your time. Have a good day. (Mark them and move on. Do not argue.)
Make a plan
Early voting runs [DATES] at [PLACE]. Election day is [DATE]. What time of day works best for you to vote?
Ask for help
We're looking for neighbors to knock doors on Saturdays. Could you help for two hours?
Close
Thanks so much. Here's some information about [CANDIDATE]. Have a great day.
Door to door canvassing tips
- Stand back from the door after you knock. Smile, and hold the literature where they can see it.
- Write the answer down before you leave the porch. Memory fades fast after 30 doors.
- Skip the script if they have a question. Answer it, then come back to the vote plan.
- If no one is home, leave literature with a short handwritten note.
- Never argue with a 4 or a 5. Your time is better spent on the next door.
What to say when people push back
| They say | You say |
|---|---|
| "I don't know much about the race." | That's okay. Most people don't yet. The short version is [ONE SENTENCE]. Can I leave you this flyer? |
| "I'm busy." | I'll be quick. Can we count on your vote on [DATE]? |
| "Who else is running?" | Give a fair one-line answer. Then share why you support your candidate. |
| "I don't vote." | A lot of people feel that way. Local races are often decided by a few hundred votes. Yours could matter here. |
How many volunteers will you need?
Enter your sites and dates. You get your number in seconds and a shift plan to download. No sign-up.
Check how many volunteers you need, freeCanvassing script questions
What is a canvassing script?
It is a short guide for what a volunteer says at each door. It keeps every talk on message and makes sure every voter is asked the same support question.
How long should a canvassing script be?
About two minutes at the door. Volunteers knock 20 to 30 doors an hour, so a long script means fewer doors.
Should volunteers read the script word for word?
No. Read it before the shift, then talk like a neighbor. The parts to keep exact are the support question and the vote plan.
What do I do with the answers?
Mark each answer on the walk list or in your canvassing app. Supporters get a reminder to vote. Undecided voters get a second contact.
What are good door to door canvassing techniques?
Stand back after you knock, smile, and keep it short. Ask one clear question, write the answer down before you leave, and never argue at the door.