Clinton and Obama volunteers working for local votes

by Nora Gathings (hsgathings@wsbt.com)

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Democratic presidential hopefuls Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill. and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y.

Democratic presidential hopefuls Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill. and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y. (AP Photos)

By Jim Pinkerton

Story Created: Apr 22, 2008 at 9:35 PM EST

Story Updated: Apr 22, 2008 at 10:34 PM EST

SOUTH BEND — Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama aren't just relying on visits to get Hoosier votes. Both campaigns have stepped up efforts to talk to as many voters as they can before the May 6 primary.

Tuesday night, Obama volunteers pounded the pavement, knocking on doors.

"You get a lot of 'nos.' There are people who aren't going to be there. There are going to be angry people," said Henry Vasquez, an Obama volunteer.

Clinton volunteers manned the phones, each making around 100 calls.

"It is very rewarding when you find someone who shares your views and likes to talk about it," said Pat O'Hayre, a Clinton volunteer.

Political experts say every 38 calls results in one vote. It only takes 14 door-to-door stops to get that same vote.

"The more personalized the approach, the more likely people will go to the polls on Election Day and vote for your candidate," said Elizabeth Bennion, an IU South Bend political science professor.

That's why both campaigns will be hitting the streets hard over the next few weeks.

"It is easier for people not to answer the phone, especially when they're home on a Saturday. They're aren't expecting you. And they think, 'I have to answer the door,'" explained Sandy Hartsell, a Clinton volunteer.

"I think people have a lot of bad experience with phone calls," said Vasquez. "But you think of door-to-door stuff and think of Girl Scouts and the cookie thing."

Political experts say Hillary's win in Pennsylvania is not going to slow down the campaign. They say she needs delegates and a strong showing to get more Superdelegate votes.

Experts also say with this race coming down to the last delegate, Obama won't slow down either.

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