How to Volunteer for Biden
A step by step guide to creating change.
By Phillip | 9/1/20
Given Trump’s and the Republicans’ continuing disregard for our democracy, we will be sliding towards more authoritarianism and fascism if they win. Our only route forward is to elect Joe Biden by a landslide, both in order to merely win against a stacked deck (the electoral college, post office, closed polling places) and to permanently defeat Trumpism, the toxic mix of racism, plutocracy, and authoritarianism in the Republican party. To do this, Biden needs millions of volunteers to achieve victory across the country and in important battleground states.
I’ve found that one of the biggest barriers to volunteering is a lack of knowledge and ease of access. We’ve created a decision making flow chart so that you can decide what works best for you and links to resources to make it as easy as possible to start volunteering today!
I’ve found that one of the biggest barriers to volunteering is a lack of knowledge and ease of access. We’ve created a decision making flow chart so that you can decide what works best for you and links to resources to make it as easy as possible to start volunteering today!
What did the flow chart tell you to do? Here are the various options ranked in terms of impact.
- Donate. There are a number of ways to support Democrats with your money. The most obvious is donating directly to the presidential race. Although huge amounts of cash are flowing to Biden, he trails Trump in total fundraising money. Please note that not all donated money goes to the presidential race, so you can donate directly to senate or house races. Try to donate to the closest races (Cal Cunningham, Sara Gideon) instead of long shot bids against politicians you hate (Amy McGrath).
- Texting. Although not as valuable as making calls to voters, you can still make a difference after a quick text training. The letter writing campaigns have been completed.
- Make Phone Calls. Joe Biden’s campaign has decided to not knock on voters doors, because of the health risks associated with Coronavirus. The next best option is to talk to people over the phone. It’s initially intimidating, but has a quick learning curve and can result in very rewarding conversations. Check out this calendar for phone banking events.
- Become a Poll Worker or Protect the Polls. In 2018, 58% of poll workers were over 61 and they are now at high risk of getting the Coronavirus. They are opting out of being poll workers, so many polling places will close, especially in urban, mostly Democratic areas. Young people can solve this by stepping up and becoming poll workers. In addition, with Republicans winning elections by suppressing the vote, we need people to watch the polls and make sure that every vote is counted. You can sign up to protect the vote here.
- Field Organizing. This role can vary in time and responsibility, but generally involves gathering a team of phone bankers and hosting phone banks. This is the job that I’m looking to do on my gap year, and will take a bit more searching to find. The good news is that candidates will almost always want more help (especially if you are willing to not get paid). Be sure to check out this holy grail of organizing, compiled by experienced organizers.
- Vote. Something that everyone should be able to do easily. We cannot complain about losing our democracy, when we do not cherish our right to vote. Whether you are registered, want to check your registration, or want to vote by mail, VoteSaveAmerica is your one stop shop or check out FiveThirtyEight’s state by state resources.