the process of going around an area and talking to people, especially to ask for support for a particular person, political party, etc. 

the process of asking people what they think about a particular subject

to carry out a canvass of opinions

to ask people to support a particular person, political party, etc., either by going around an area and talking to people or by phoning them 

to ask people about something in order to find out what they think about it

He has been canvassing opinion on the issue.

People are being canvassed for their views on the proposed new road.

to try and get support from a group of people

to discuss an idea carefully and completely

The proposal is currently being canvassed.

LEARNit Dictionary