Suggested outreach script for stopping the Bush plan to stack the courts
Right-click and save here to download a .pdf version of this script
Canvassing intro: Hi. I live over on _____ street and I'm talking to folks in our neighborhood about the judges George Bush's wants to appoint to the Supreme Court. Is that something you're concerned about?
Tabling intro: Hi, would you make a quick phone call to keep right-wing judges off the Supreme Court?
If no: Thank you. Have a nice day.
If yes or unsure: Nominees to be judges have always had to have broad support in the Senate. But now President Bush and Republican leaders are trying to change the rules so they can force through their right-wing judges.
They want to stack the Supreme Court with extremist judges who threaten the environment, civil rights, and privacy.
Our senators are voting on this soon. Will you call and ask them to fight plans to push through right-wing judges?
If yes: Great! [hand over flyer and point out the phone number, and the "what to say" blurb at the bottom]. It's really easy - just call this number and leave a message with whoever answers. You can just say this right here…
If no: See if you can address their concern quickly, but if you can't, just thank them and move on.
Tips:
- Smile and make eye contact.
- You want to be able to confirm that this call gets made. One way to do this is to carry a cell phone and ask people to call right away (or ask them to use their own phone). If you're canvassing, you can also ask them to call while you wait, and report back to you what happens.
- Don't get in philosophical or ideological arguments. Many people won't agree with us. To protect the courts, we need to get tons of calls this week, and the best way to do this is to keep looking for people who are on our side, and not trying to convert people who don't agree.
- Don't take rejection personally. Just thank people and move on. Remember your goal - it presumes that most people will say no.
- Recruit! If people sound enthusiastic, ask them to join your team!