term:

Canvass

canvass

also
can·vas
[kan-vəs]

vb
-vassed also: -vased
-vass·ing also: -vas·ing
vt
1 a : to examine in detail
;specif
: to examine (votes) officially for authenticity
b : to make the subject of discussion or debate
2 : to go through (a district) or go to (persons) in order to solicit orders or political support or to determine opinions or sentiments
vi
: to seek or solicit orders or votes

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.