WRN file photo
In a polarized, evenly-divided state, in which polls show the two gubernatorial candidates in a dead heat among likely voters, every single vote counts. Both political parties say turnout is the key to a win. In the days remaining before the election, Republicans and Democrats are knocking on doors, working the phones, and rallying voters.
Melissa Baldauff is communications director for the state Democratic Party. “There are about a million voters who cast a ballot in 2012, but didn’t vote in the midterm election in 2010.” She says, “It’s a very pivital goal for us here at the Democratic Party of Wisconsin to find those voters, and engage those voters, and get them out.” Baldauff adds, early voting frees people up to volunteer on Election Day.
Joe Fadness is executive director for the state Republican Party. He says the state GOP ground game is “second to none.” Fadness says, “These 22 offices that the Republican Party of Wisconsin has are literally across the state everywhere from Kenosha up to Superior.” He says, “There’s not a single vote that can be taken for granted, especially in a state like Wisconsin and especially in a race like this.”
Fadness says TV ads “can only do so much.” It’s the personal one-on-one contact, he says, “that will make the difference.”
A photo ID is not needed in order to vote, but you will need to fill out an absentee application before getting a ballot.
Early in-person voting continues through October 31st — the Friday before Election Day. Absentee ballots can also be cast by mail.
Voters should check with their local municipal clerk’s office for voting times, which is limited to between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays but can vary among offices. Early in-person voting began on Monday October 20th.
Former President Bill Clinton was in Milwaukee Friday motivated the base for Mary Burke. Current President Barack Obama will be campaigning in Milwaukee next week. Meanwhile, Walker’s campaign says New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will campaign in Wisconsin next week to encourage voters to cast their ballots.
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report :79