Where can I collect signatures for a petition?

Question

I am trying to help a presidential candidate get on the ballot in Indiana. I don't know where best to ask a bunch of people to sign the petition. My social networks are small. I don't mind asking strangers but I can't think of a good location where it's appropriate to do that.

Answer 1

One of the best places to gather signatures is Wal-mart.  The only problem is that sometimes you need to give a couple of months notice but you won't know until you check it out...and don't let them tell you that they don't allow it because that's a crock.  A lot of smaller grocery stores are generally receptive as long as you put on your most innocent sweet face when asking.  If all else fails then "stealth or commando" petition...do til they ask you to leave or threaten to call the cops.  Indiana I do not believe has petitioner protection laws.  Happy hunting.

Answer 2

The library

Answer 3

Where do people go or gather? That's where you set up your table (with permission of the business or location). Grocery stores on Saturday are usually pretty active.

Answer 4

I would suggest that you consider asking them to put thier signatures on the bottom of the petition. That should be appropriate.

cheers.

Answer 5

I'm not acquainted with Indiana law on this area, but I suggest you check with someone who is knowledgable so you target those eligible to sign.  That is, do you need just any registered voter, or must they be Reps, or Dems, or  Independents, or can anyone sign.  Must you live in the same district (congressional, or state legislative) as you signers (this used to be the case in many states).  What format is required of the petition?  If that candidate's campaign provides the petition you can probably assume the format is acceptable, but check anyway.  Remember, you are NOT putting a candidate for President on the ballot, unless this is for a primary, and even then depending on state law, you may have to list convention delegates pledged to the candidate.  For a general election, you are putting on electors.

Good places to approach people are outside shopping malls, churches on Sundays, train stations (check that they are local people), near schools when parents are gathering to meet their kids, college campus (make sure they are registered).  You may have to go door to door, in which case housing complexes like apartment buildings are best.

Answer 6

Go to the Nearest Mall.