Run for Office

Involve the Democratic Party early in your process. Contemplating a run for office can take a long time. There may be factors you haven't considered. Email chair@adamscountydems.org to let us know you are thinking about running for office.

Attend a candidate training! First-time candidates as well as candidates who have taken some time out of public life or just want to know the latest campaign techniques should attend candidate training. It provides you with invaluable tools and information to help your campaign be successful.

Do your homework! There are a lot of things to consider before running for office. Take the time to deeply understand your compliance requirements. Do research into prior campaigns to see what went well and what you can do better in your own campaign. Also, do your financial homework. Research the pay that you would receive once elected, and determine if your household finances can realistically manage that.

Choose the right office! You can make a huge impact by running for local office! Be sure to do research about the office(s) you are interested in. Be realistic about whether you will be able to win in an election for the office you're considering.

Define your "Why?" By articulating why you're running, you are telling potential supporters and voters about your values. Create an "elevator pitch" about why people should support your campaign.

Build support with your loved ones and your community networks. Be sure to obtain any necessary approvals from your employer before you decide to run. Find elected officials (both current and former) who can mentor you and guide your campaign.

Make a plan! A realistic and detailed plan that includes your fundraising goals, target voters, and win number are a must when running for office. Be sure to include tactics that offer high quality connections with voters (door-knocking and events) and leverage high tech (website, online advertising, social media, and texting).

Make a schedule! Determine how much time you will have to devote to your campaign, and be realistic about what time commitments you can make. Create a detailed campaign schedule from your kick-off event through to post election curing. Plan work and family travel with key election dates in mind. You will not be able to leave town for extended periods of time in the months before and just after the election.

Submit your intent to run in writing! When it is time to announce your campaign, please email your letter of intent to chair@adamscountydems.org and secretary@adamscountydems.org.

This is an important step to comply with Democratic Party Rules. It also ensures that you receive important informational updates and invitations to Adams County Democrats' meetings and events.