Today we are seeing shifting attitudes in the right-wing and some undecided voters and we need to take caution. There are millions of decent people that must hear our message, but occassionally we might run across someone not receptive. I do have some thoughts on how to deal with individuals with hostility issues.
This diary is specific to the "hostile" voter.
In watching some of the video feeds of the McCain rallies and reading some of the stories on Dkos, I am increasingly concerned that certain voters are going to become hostile and may show aggression toward our canvassers. I worked at rehab facility for brain injured. Some injuries can cause severe agitation and aggression. We used postitive reinforcement to stave off unwanted behaviors. However, there are some people that do not respond. At a rehab facility-we had to respond through various methods. Dealing with voters is another story. It is pointless and a waste of time to continue to mess with them. You will not change their minds no matter what.
I think there are some very practical and important words of advice for those that might find themselves in an uncomfortable situation.
- Work in pairs or more and always have a cell phone.
- Pay attention to your surroundings-bumper stickers, yard signs, anything that might indicate the person you are about to deal with is leaning McCain or Republican. If so, you might want to avoid this person.
- I recommend if the person you speak with seems threatening in any way-diffuse the conversation. For instance, if they make a rude comment about Senator Obama, Tell them you appreciate their opinion and that It is great that we live in America, because we can both have our opinion.
- Thank them and leave-do not pass go, do not try and collect $200.
- Write down their address and report it to the Obama campaign to take them off of the list.
- Do not go back.
Also, do not enflame the situation-divorce yourself from your emotions when dealing with these individuals. We do not want to read about a story where someone has been harmed because of these people.
Remember, you must keep yourself and those around you safe. If your gut tells you this is a bad situation, leave! Trust your instincts and do not expect love and flowers to win them over.
These people are on the verge of losing the election, and John McCain has opened the gates of hell in terms of hatred and irrationality. As this draws closer, we will see an even larger increase in the hostility from McCain and his blackshirts.