The last presidential election was decided by 0.02% of the total population, about 70,000 votes. Voter Registration is of critical importance to expanding the progressive base—especially in historically marginalized communities—as we look ahead to the presidential election.

There are a variety of methods to register voters. Even as organizers are gaining more and more digital tools, the most effective and impactful way to engage with a constituent continues to be face-to-face. We should focus primarily on high traffic canvassing (also known as site-based registration), but your plan can and should consider additional ways to register voters in your community.

• High traffic canvass: High traffic canvassing means going to areas where there is high foot traffic and having conversations with passersby. This is an efficient way to have a lot of conversations in a short amount of time.
  • Stay away from Malls -- even on hot days, even when they're crowded. The results are not worth the time spent
  • Consider setting up a table outside a grocery store (after getting permission from the owner or manager).
  • Encourage people to receive their ballots by mail.
  • Online pre-registration is now available for eligible 16 and 17 year olds by visiting registertovote.ca.gov.
• Door to door (targeted or blind knocking): Going door to door and asking folks at their door to register to vote. Targeted knocking refers to a specific list of people, while blind knocking means you are going to every door without a specified list.
• Community outreach: Registering voters through existing groups and organizations within your community (e.g. other progressive groups, churches, schools, etc.).
• Register to vote online