First Steps

Prepare to tell why you became a candidate:

To earn a voice in decision making
To get important issues before the public (which?)
To give voters a meaningful choice
To give Democrats more reason to get to the polls

Statewide candidates need 40-45% of the votes in Canyon County to win a statewide or Congressional District One office. In the recent decades Canyon County Democrats have turned out in enough force to elect Controller J.D. Williams, Supt. of Public Instruction Marilyn Howard, and U.S. Representative Walt Minnick.

Prepare a bio:

A good employment record
Involvement in community organizations and service groups
Experience on boards and planning groups
Interest in meeting and talking with people
Understanding of issues
Ability to communicate orally and in writing
A group of strong supporters
A will to win

(A successful candidate enjoys listening to people, feels comfortable at fundraising, and appreciates what he or she learns while running for office. Many candidates are not successful until their second or third campaigns.)

Some things to do right away:

From the Idaho Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee

Make a list of reasons why you want to run – it’s the first question you will be asked and you want to answer it well.
Put together your ‘running for office resume’, including any community groups you’re involved with or civic leadership roles you have taken – your biography and personal story are key parts you your campaign message; take time to do them right. Get a professional photo taken.
Make a list of personal friends who will:

o Be a part of your campaign team

o Donate to your campaign

Your Friends will be glad to help on both fronts – all you have to do is ask!

Talk with Democrats who have run for the seat and those who have held a similar position, as well as your local County Democratic Chair. Ask for advice about running for the seat and for the names of community leaders you should contact.
Make 5-10 “I’m thinking about running for office” calls to community leaders. Ask the following questions when you call:

o What are the key issues in this campaign?

o Who are the other important people I should talk to?

o How do I win?

o What is the campaign history of this district?

o Have you heard of any possible opponents (primary or general)?

o Would you support me?

Keep in touch with your county chair (Bob Solomon, ruok@msn.com).