Vang Brings Door-to-Door Campaign to Elk Grove; Can a 'Cause' Overcome Cash?
Matsui has the cash, but Vang has the cause
Even if Mai Vang doesn't succeed in her efforts to unseat fellow Democrat and longtime Congresswoman Doris Matsui, it won't be for a lack of effort. Since Vang first announced her challenge to Matsui for California's 7th Congressional District, she has been campaigning virtually non-stop.
As part of that strategy, Vang is now taking her efforts into Elk Grove, a part of the 7th District viewed as a Matsui stronghold. On social media posts from the last few days by an Elk Grove group (ElkGroveFor Mai on Instagram) that may or may not be part of Vang's official campaign, it was announced that three days of door-to-door canvassing are scheduled in Elk Grove (see image below).
Even though Matsui has earned more endorsements from establishment Democrats, and more importantly, has more campaign cash on hand and an extensive corporate donor network she can tap, there is one area where she, like all longtime members of Congress, lacks - a dedicated group of motivated volunteers.
If needed, Matsui can hire door-to-door canvassers. But voters can generally see the enthusiasm gap between a paid canvasser and a dedicated volunteer working on a cause.
Contrasting Vang's numerous social media posts showing her engaging voters, Matsui shows herself with other elected and public officials. This weekend, Ms. Matsui posted a picture of herself with a supporter who planted a lawn sign.
Matsui has the cash, but Vang has the cause. History has shown that those with a cause often overcome seemingly long odds.
