How to Run for Office.
Entering a race for political office?
A successful run is within your grasp.
You will need Platform Paperwork Advisers Donations Voting records Name recognition
Positivity and political party (optional).
Step 1.
Put together a platform of your governing principles, speak to prospective constituents
to learn their concerns, and consider how your personal experience reflects the issues
that are important to you.
Then, visit the appropriate board of elections and file the paperwork required to declare
your candidacy.
Most candidates for public office must submit a petition with a minimum number of signatures
and meet age requirements.
Step 2.
Find people to help you run for office.
Go beyond friends and family and ask people who will give you objective advice.
Hire a campaign manager, a communications director, a fundraiser, and a treasurer to
manage the budget.
With your team in place, hold a press conference to announce your candidacy.
Step 3.
Host fundraisers and solicit donations to amass a treasury you can use to publicize
your run for office.
Approach established political parties who share your views for additional support.
Step 4.
Figure out the number of votes you need to win the election: Multiply the number of registered
voters in your area by the percentage of expected voters, and the percentage of votes required
to win.
Check public voting records and party registration to identify the districts you'll likely win
or lose and those that can swing a close race.
Step 5.
Hold public events, make media appearances, canvass door-to-door -- anything that increases
awareness of your candidacy.
Remind constituents in areas that support you to register to vote and to get to the
polls.
Tell voters in swing areas what differentiates you from your opponent and why you'll be a
better representative.
If past indiscretions threaten to come out, address them head-on so you can control, or
"spin," the way information is reported.
Step 6.
As the vote approaches, stay positive, focus on your message, and, on Election Day, vote
for the best candidate you know.
Did you know As of 2009, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg had spent an estimated $261
million of his own money on his political campaigns.