Election candidates focus on canvassing to connect with voters in-person

SPOKANE, Wash. — With just ten days to go before Election Day, candidates are making one final push to get your vote.

As of October 25th, around 120,000 ballots have been returned in Spokane County, just over 31% of registered voters.

Canvassing is an strategy used by candidates to create a connection with the voters. While it’s not always the most efficient, candidates said it can be one of the most effective.

“People really respond to an in-person connection with somebody, especially if it’s somebody local, somebody who’s a neighbor,” said Democratic candidate Carmela Conroy who for the 5th District Congressional seat.

For months, candidates have been going door-to-door trying to get their name known and convincing voters to vote for them.

While this method might seem random, it is very directed. Some campaigns use a particular strategy guided by an app. This displays public information to tell them who has not voted and their party affiliation.

“We want to make sure that we remind folks to have their voice heard and fill out that ballot,” said Erich Ebel, the campaign manager for Michael Baumgartner who is also running for Washington’s 5th Congressional District.

In the final stretch of election season, canvassing is focused on getting you out to vote, but at times it can also be what convince someone who is still undecided.

In order for your ballot to count, it has to be returned to a ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 5.