What the H is GOTV?

I want to let you in on a little something . . . every Secret Squirrel spy organization needs a special secret language so everyone knows who's in, right? Well, I want you in on Dem Speak, so I thought I'd do a little decoding before we head into the froth of the upcoming election wave. (Secret handshake instructions in an upcoming blog, so keep your eyes . . . er . . . palms peeled.)

VAN (Voter Activation Network) or VOTE-BUILDER: This is the data system we use to track and contact voters. It is a magnificent tool provided by the ILDCCA and the DNC to avoid re-inventing the wheel every election cycle which makes it easier to build electoral momentum.

ILDCCA (Illinois Democratic County Chairmens Association): This is our big brother, headquartered out of Springfield, and the group that sponsors the yearly brunch we attend prior to the State Fair. We appreciate all the tools they provide.

DNC: Inventor of the VAN, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has recently joined their database with NGP (I don't even remember what that means!) to really boost its outreach power. The merger added better campaign functions as well as consumer data and other predictors of voter leanings. This is especially helpful in uncovering likely Dem non-primary voters. Here is a good explanation of the merger and its value to us and the party.

http://www.ngpsoftware.com/ngpvanmerge

Last, but not least . . .

GOTV: Get Out The Vote. More on ways you can help us do just that on is on its way!

If you have any Secret Squirrel acronym or code word you have been wondering about, write to me! (Your identity, of course, will remain confidential!)

Amy Rohrer

Executive Director

Democratic Party of DuPage