Running for public office is not an easy endeavor. There will be challenging days ahead. Running for an elected position is akin to having a second or even a third job. Before you begin, ensure your finances are in place, you have stability at home, a clear understanding of why you are doing this, a mentor by your side, and, if you are lucky, a strong team supporting you.
When all else fails, remember why you decided to run. Many run because of a problem that needs solving; after trying many avenues without success, they take the necessary steps to make the change happen themselves.
During those hard days when things are down and you may think of giving up, remember these words: “Progress remains stagnant without the force of action.” ~ Sergeant Gonzalo Duran.
Your Political Party
Know that your political party is there to help you, but understand that your campaign is yours and yours alone. Your party will be available to give basic advice, but it is your responsibility to research policies and regulations for organizations such as the campaign finance board and the board of elections for the legislative office you are seeking. All legal ramifications for errors fall on the candidate. Before running, you should have educated yourself on the duties and limitations of the office you are seeking; if not, now is the time.
Campaign Finance Board
Each level of legislative position you run for, such as federal, state, or city, has its own organization and rules. You must become knowledgeable in this subject because your name and reputation are at stake, and all paperwork will always come back to you. If you do not have funds or generate contributions, another option is taking out loans. This is a significant financial burden most candidates do not anticipate until they encounter it. Many candidates struggle with tracking their funds and reporting them correctly. It is common practice to have a separate reputable person handling your campaign finances.
Board of Elections
Many people think the importance of the board of elections diminishes after making the ballot, but to the contrary, many of the rules that guide your actions come from this board. Understanding their policies is crucial for compliance and success.
Building Your Team
As the candidate, it is your job to get elected, but you need a team to help you. Volunteers, paid employees, or a hybrid will depend on your funds. Basic positions such as campaign manager, treasurer, volunteer coordinator, and public relations officer are among the essential positions, but there are many more. These individuals may come to you, or you will need to find them. Those who signed your petitions are a good place to start, and asking other candidates or political contacts for suggestions is also helpful. Always check backgrounds regardless of how they come to your attention.
Campaign Strategy
- Refine Your Platform: It is up to you to formulate your own campaign strategy, not the party you are running under. Ensure your policy positions are clear not only for campaign messages but also for the audience you will address. Your reasons and platforms for running should resonate with your target audience. Be prepared to face adversity and tailor your speech to effectively counter those who may oppose your ideologies.
Fundraising
- Seek Contributions: Inform people you are running and seek their support. Fundraising can include small donors, larger donors, fundraising events, mailing requests for donations, and crowdfunding. For beginners, door-knocking or asking friends, family, and neighbors is a good start. Fundraising events are more complex, and unless you have funds collected, you may need to use your own resources.
Media and Public Relations
- Engage the Media: Depending on your existing media presence, reaching out to reporters and media outlets is crucial. Independent journalists, local or national podcasts, print media, local cable, local news, and national media outlets are all valuable. Be sure to reach out even to media outlets that you may not like or agree with. Avoid the echo chamber mentality.
- Utilize Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube help get your message to a community you have built. Increasing your reach by gaining followers is important, and these platforms offer paid methods to boost visibility. However, do not depend too much on social media as it tends to become an aforementioned echo chamber.
- Additional Methods: Newsletters, phone banking, and text messages are other effective outreach methods. Building your database or getting contact information can be gathered by different methods, such as your political party or outside third-party organizations.
- Community Meetings and Town Halls: Participation in community meetings and town halls is essential for involvement, and hosting your own public meetings helps establish your presence. Staying updated on current national and local issues will be a huge factor in gaining positive feedback.
Debates and Public Appearances
- Prepare for Debates: Debates are an excellent way to challenge your opponent publicly. Getting an incumbent to participate can be challenging, but you should prepare regardless. Practice your speaking skills, anticipate questions, and develop strong, platform-based answers.
- Attend Community Events: Be visible at local community events such as community boards, precinct councils, and political clubs. Building a reputation for visibility and name recognition is key to building trust within your community.
These are just a few of the many steps you will need to focus on in your run for a successful campaign. Achieving your goal will depend on you—how much energy, money, and time you invest in your campaign. This journey is not for the faint of heart, but the level of victory will be directly proportional to your dedication and effort.
Featured photo by Christopher Reid
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