Young Jews are being encouraged to travel to Florida to lobby their grandparents on behalf of Barack Obama.
A new Jewish political action committee is encouraging, the Jewish Council for Education and Research, is organizing “The Great Schlep” over Columbus Day Weekend, Oct. 11-13, in an effort to help tip Florida to the Democratic nominee.
An Internet video starring Jewish comedian Sarah Silverman, which was viewed about 1 million times in its first day of release, boosted the effort.
“It’s clear from any sort of political operative you talk to that the best way to persuade somebody is for them to talk to someone they trust,” said Mik Moore, a co-executive director of the new Jewish Council. “Our indications are that these are the best people to make the case. And we’ve seen a huge amount of interest in doing this.”
Organizers intend to provide travelers with training and materials, and they are hosting a social event on the evening of Oct. 11. Participants are expected to secure their own funding and accommodations.
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