Getoutthevote

Get out the vote, or GOTV, refers to organized activities designed to increase the number of people who vote in elections. It is used by political campaigns, parties, unions, advocacy groups, and civic organizations, both partisan and nonpartisan, with a focus on demographics or geographic areas that have historically low turnout.

Typical GOTV activities include canvassing door-to-door, phone banking, text messaging, and mail or digital reminders to registered voters about registration, polling locations, and voting times; rides to the polls; and information about early voting or absentee options. Data-driven targeting and contact sequencing are used to tailor messages and maximize turnout on or before Election Day.

Historically, GOTV efforts have been central to modern political campaigns, evolving from field organizing in the mid-20th century to sophisticated digital and field programs in the 21st century. The term also informs nonpartisan civic-get-out-the-vote campaigns that seek to increase turnout without endorsing candidates.

Measuring effectiveness involves turnout increases attributable to GOTV activities, efficiency metrics such as doors knocked per vote, cost per turnout, and the marginal impact on specific groups. Research shows GOTV can boost turnout, particularly among underrepresented populations, but effects vary by context and campaign dynamics.

Legal and ethical considerations include adherence to election laws governing outreach, data privacy, and the boundaries between partisan and nonpartisan efforts. Overall, GOTV remains a core component of electoral campaigns and civic participation initiatives, aimed at converting voter interest into actual ballots cast.