Question 1

Where can I find requirements about specific elected positions?

RFOadmin · Accepted Answer

All public offices have basic requirements, often written in code or statutes on a state or local level. These requirements include who is eligible to hold the office, the length of the term, scheduled responsibilities, salary and benefits, etc.

You can learn more about these requirements by visiting your Secretary of State or county election website. You can also reach out to your local state or county political party for information.

There are organizations that assist individuals who want to run for local, state, or federal elections. Some provide in-person training and others provide online courses and information.

Find My State or Local Election Office Website [usa.gov]

Question 2

Does running for office take a lot of time?

RFOadmin · Accepted Answer

The decision to run for office should not be taken lightly, it is a big commitment that will take up most of your time, energy and resources.

Understand that you are going to be spending a lot of time on the campaign trail. It will include evenings and weekends. It is not something that you can just do in your spare time.

The amount of time you will need to dedicate will vary depending on the position sought. The time and effort required for a local town council will be less than running for a state representative or congressional position.

Speak to those who have run before and who have been involved in political campaigns. They can offer insight into the level of commitment required to run and win a specific position. Your local political party can also offer advice and information.

Question 3

Can I spend my own money before establishing a campaign bank account?

RFOadmin · Accepted Answer

Personal funds can be used during the initial stages of a political campaign. But once a campaign bank account is set up, personal contributions should not be accepted. Initial spending is generally treated as an in-kind donation or as a personal loan. Once the campaign is underway, the treasurer should handle the political funds and keep track of income and expenditures.

Question 4

What is a political campaign committee?

RFOadmin · Accepted Answer

Political campaign committees are organizations that represents and supports a candidate's campaign. The committee is formed by the candidate, their staff, and the party organization. Campaign committees are typically made up of the candidate's friends and family, as well as members of the community who feel passionately about the candidate's policies. Members may also include the candidate, campaign managers, funders, and volunteers. Campaign committees are usually made up of volunteers, but they can also have paid staff. The job responsibilities and size will depend on the size and scope of the campaign. In a political campaign committee, there are many different roles that need to be filled. These positions include:

Campaign manager: The person in charge of managing the campaign. They are responsible for overseeing all of the campaign’s operations and making sure they are on track with their goals.
Campaign strategist: This is someone who helps a candidate plan out their strategy for winning an election. They help decide what messages to use and how to get them out there most effectively.
Communications director: This person is in charge of communicating with the public about the campaign’s message and candidate. They may also be in charge of social media or advertising campaigns, depending on what the campaign needs.

You will need a committee in place in order to legally accept donations or even spend money on your campaign. Rules and requirements on establishing a committee differ somewhat from state to state.

Where can I find requirements about specific elected positions?