Getting Into Politics

Getting Into PoliticsBy Martha Buhner and LindaDunnGet InvolvedService oriented groups Kiwanis, Rotary, etc.Political groupsLocal PTAsCoach sportsHelp others with their campaign

LearnThe demographics of their communityAgeOccupationIncome levelsNeighborhood differences

Learn Attend local political committee meetings to determine:Important issuesPolitical positions availableBudget

What Candidates should know before they runPosition they want to holdParty of choice, if anyMake sure all forms are submittedBe comfortable with their choices because it is the base of their political career

Raising MoneyFind a professional political campaign managerDetermine who to solicit funds fromContinually press for funds through fundraisers, meetings, and phone calls

Organize

Have a succinct answer why they are running for a position Create a theme with priority issues and position statements Meet with media, press conferences Brochures/bumper stickers Plan community events Continually reassess political standing

CAMPAIGN

Attend community meetings Canvas neighborhoods personally, and by volunteers Arrange short speech opportunities Know opponents various stands on issues

ELECTIONVoters are top priority Election Day Get them to polls by:Personally phoning, and getting volunteers to phone votersGet volunteers to transport anyone in need Have volunteers at the polls

Political information web sites:

www.vote-smart.orgwww.campaignline.comwww.politicaljunkie.comwww.electionline.orgwww.eac.govwww.fairvote.orgwww.lwv.orgwww.politico.com