An advertisement from the official site of Georgia’s Democrats invites constituents to a Kamala Harris canvassing event at 3pm. The location is an open garage in one of Atlanta’s northerly suburbs, and there’s L Don Richard, manning a table bursting with information about early voting hotspots, local Democratic contenders, party-themed hats, and Democrat blue cupcakes.
One team member searches for a missing volunteer while Richard engages in conversation about the similarities between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil in the Irish political landscape. Directions and contact details have been given should anyone need to find Hughie Glidewell amidst his canvassing efforts on Chestnut Drive, Doraville, an area known for its substantial Hispanic and Asian populations.
Glidewell, now in his seventies, began his canvassing activities over five decades ago. From Knutsford, Cheshire, he was inspired by his Liberal party-affiliated mother, Hilary, who once ran for office in the UK’s general elections of 1974. At that time, the two major parties, Conservatives and Labour, were in turmoil. However, Hilary Glidewell’s strong initial showing was not sustained, as her party struggled with scandal related to party leader Jeremy Thorpe, affecting her results in the second race.
Accused of ordering a hitman to eliminate a man threatening to expose their romantic entanglement, Thorpe became tabloid fodder. Refusal to testify ended up in acquittal, but the scandal permanently damaged his reputation.
After initially relocating to Florida in the 80s, Glidewell eventually moved to Atlanta setting up a landscaping enterprise. He has acclimated perfectly to his American life, evidenced by his chino shorts and pickup truck.
Glidewell only resumed active political participation in 2017. This resurgence was prompted by his mother’s death, whose 2020 obituary in The Times remembered her as a “vibrant advocate for social justice.” Reflecting on President Trump’s election, he expresses his determination, stating that it was moments after Trump won that he knew “it was time to get going.”
He declares that the dynamics of politics beyond the Atlantic shares parallels with their own. He vividly recalls engaging with the public in Knutsford and Nantwich back in 1973 and remarks how little some things have changed; individuals remain much the same, engaging with ease, civility and friendliness.
Harris and the Democrats are vigorously ramping operations up as they strive to replicate the unexpected victory achieved by Joe Biden in Georgia last year – a triumph that hadn’t been seen since Bill Clinton’s 1992 win, or indeed Jimmy Carter’s double victories in 1976 and 1980.
Today’s strategy is informed by data rather than mere optimism. With an iPad showcasing a map of residences of known past party supporters, the objective is to ensure their turnout at the polls – ideally as early voters.
Joyce, the resident of their first call, is busy in her garden. With a Harris/Walz sign adorning her lawn, she reassures them of her intent to vote early and Democrat. Glidewell, emphasising the significance of early voting in a state dealing with alterations in electoral laws and lingering disputes regarding fraud in 2020’s result, assures Joyce: “Even if election day antics occur, your early vote will be duly counted.” Furthermore, he states, Joyce will spare them the need for a return visit. The iPad notes her as a ‘strong Democrat’ and early voter – one task accomplished.
At the Islam’s residence, the lady of the house informs Glidewell that they plan to vote on the day to savour the event. Glidewell questions, “Can we rely on your support?” “That’s confidential,” she cheerily retorts. Her young daughter chips in, voicing her support for Kamala, and criticising Trump’s pro-billionaire tax policies.
Next, they visit Angelica. Yet to vote, she assures them she will and her son will be making his inaugural vote. He wants his first to be for a female president, she shares. Glidewell categorises another ‘strong Democrat’ into his database.
At the dwelling of Rob and Denise, a man sporting a beard peeps from a slightly ajar door, stating, “We’re not keen on discussing politics. Cheers. Have a good one.” When Glidewell persists to ask for Denise, the response remains steady, “We’ve no interest in discussing politics. Cheers. Have a good one.”
Their next stop is a residence with a Tesla noticeably parked on the premises. Luther, wearing an Atlanta United football jersey, opens the door. Although he’s uncertain of when, he assures that he will cast his vote early, gesturing to a Harris/Walz banner close to the doorway, “You can bank on us.” Seeing the electric vehicle and the football kit, Glidewell comments, “He was never likely to vote for the Republicans.”
On being queried about how he thinks things are progressing, he responds, “It’s rather tough to discern,” given the fact he’s actively engaging with residents in the urban region of Atlanta, a place where Democrats frequently hold sway and need to maintain popularity. Four years earlier, only around a fifth of the 159 counties had supported Biden; however, these were typically the areas with larger populations.
“I run a venture two counties over, in Cherokee County, and the contrast is stark,” remarks Glidewell. “The moment you step over the county boundary, it’s undeniably Trump territory.”
Does Glidewell believe their campaign work will bear fruit and draw supporters for Harris?
“Absolutely, I am hopeful. Fear throbs in our hearts for the future of the United States, for the future of the democratic republic.”