Influencing Your Circle
September 28, 2016
The November election will likely be exciting until the end. A Trump tailspin could give the Democrats control of the Senate and maybe even the House. A Trump recovery could ….
Circle Voting is a way to increase our impact on the election through our circles of family and friends. You have much more power than you may think. Here’s why:
I. MANY OF YOUR FRIENDS WILL LIKELY NOT VOTE
A few days before the November 2012 election, the CBS News poll found that 73% of those of voting age said they would “definitely vote.” However, among thevoting age population, only 54% actually voted. Overstatements like this are common in all election polls.
Sure, some intended to vote, but didn’t get around to it. However, most of the 19% were feeling the social desirability of voting when answering. If it is so strong among people talking to a stranger, you can bet that most of your non-voting friends would want you to believe that they are regular voters. There are substantial numbers of non-voters in every demographic group, yours is no exception.
II. ONLY SOME VOTES REALLY MATTER IN THIS ELECTION
Based on campaign expenditures and plans, it is likely the presidential outcome will revolve around these states: North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Florida, and possibly Arizona. If either campaign implodes, more states will be in play, but these states will become the firewall.
Control of the Senate will be decided in a few states. The Democrats need to pick up 4 seats and the White House, or 5 seats without it. Based on polls, etc, they are expected to pick up seats in Illinois, Wisconsin,and Indiana, so the fulcrum of of Senate control is in these three close states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire. And Florida is not far behind Control of the House will come down to about 30 seats; more on this later.
For now, think about your family and friends in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida They might not realize just how important is THEIR VOTE.
III. YOU CAN INFLUENCE YOUR CIRCLE TO VOTE
Research on social networks show that people share similar beliefs with those in their circles. And people are influenced by the actions of others in their networks in difficult changes like stopping smoking and losing weight.. Think about how you have been influenced by others in talking actions around re-cycling, diet, use of pronouns….
Here are some possible actions:
Learn how to talk to friends about voting, so they can tell you their hesitations. If your state or district is not contested now, it will be soon. And if your friends are motivated voters, encourage them to spread their influence.
Keep your eye out for friends in the battleground states. Let them know how important their vote is. Offer help them with registration, absentee voting. Remind them to vote.
Share your experiences here and keep this going.