As much as it is starting to get on my nerves living in a battleground state, I realized I have a unique opportunity this year. Given Minnesota's political history, this is the first time in decades when both major candidates are making multiple stops here. Depending on how the political winds shift, it could also be the last time for decades. As a generally-nonpartisan centrist, this gives me the chance to do something unique and worthwhile: see both candidates speak in person before the election. 

It is true that I'm leaning towards voting for Kerry....but I'm also willing to change my mind based on new things I learn. I am what they call "persuadable."

So, I'm making it my goal to see both Bush and Kerry speak before the election. In addition, I'd also like to see Cheney and Edwards in person, too. Given that one of these four people seems to swing through Minnesota almost every week, this seems doable in principle.

In practice, it may be much harder. Media reports are that the campaigns have been screening attendees this year: rather than reaching out to undecided voters, they're just rallying the base (and making sure the right image gets on the news). That said, I'm sure there must be a way for an undecided voter in a battleground state to get to see the candidates. If nothing else, it will be interesting to try.

I have no idea what to expect, or even how to begin. The last presidential campaign rally I attended was in 1980 with John Anderson. I was 10 at the time. I assume that the first steps are to call the respective campaign headquarters and just ask.

If anyone can get me tickets to any upcoming events, please let me know. I'll keep everyone posted.

P.S. In reading this, it seems that I may be terribly naive about either campaign actually wanting a persuadable voter to attend a rally and hear the candidate speak. I hope we haven't sunk to that level in American politics, but I'm afraid we might have. That just makes it a more interesting experiment to see how hard it will be to get in.