If you want to run a political campaign, there are several ways to assure success. Whether you are running for a local school board position, or for the presidency of the United States, there are certain strategies that will help, regardless of the context of the race.
Before you do anything else, it is important to first know the issues involved in the office you seek. By identifying the specific needs of the community or state you wish to serve, you will put yourself in position to do the maximum for your potential political constituency. Depending on how involved you are with issues of public policy, this gathering process can vary; the “political junkie” who reads the newspaper every day will need much less time than the neophyte to collect policy background. One thing is sure, though: you must have thorough knowledge of all “hot-button” – or important – issues with respect to the office you seek.
Once you know the circumstances of the constituency you wish to lead, you will want to line up funding. Where funding for the average local campaign (including school boards, small city councils, local tax collector) likely require very little funding, for many campaigns such as county commissioners seats, state representation, and big city mayor positions, money will be key to your success. You can always contact local businessmen, investors and party committee members; people who are likely to hold the same views as you often find it a good investment to back like-minded political candidates. Of course, it is important to note that rules and laws apply to campaign fundraising. You’ll want to contact the Internal Revenue Service, as well as the Federal Election Commission and your home state’s voting commission before attempting to raise money for your campaign.
Door-to-door campaigning is a great way to meet people, and to introduce your candidacy. Demonstrating your willingness to hear voters out, going door-to-door is a very effective and proven method of ensuring success on election day. A staple of local and state elections in particular, door-to-door campaigning is most effective when utilized by small groups. It’s a lot of fun as a social event as well.
Seeking endorsements is another way of bringing your political capital to bear. Of course, party-affiliated groups like Young Democrats and Young Conservatives will be willing to endorse your candidacy, if they see fit to do so. But just as effective, if not more so, are the endorsements of current elected officials, plus your local chamber of commerce. Gaining these public nods will put your campaign on track, and show the voters that important, politically involved people trust your motives.
Finally, contacting the writers of voter’s guides is a key element in the campaign process. Organizations like the non-partisan (not party-affiliated) League of Women’s Voters publish voter’s guides online and in local newspapers. A free source of voter information, voter’s guides do not take sides, but rather give background information on candidates, as well as a forum for answering of important policy questions. The authors of voter’s guides greatly appreciate the candidate who makes him or herself available for candid questioning.
All of these strategies can help ensure a successful political campaign. By utilizing all of the means at your disposal, you can give yourself the best chance at competing in the tough – but ultimately rewarding – world of politics.
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