5 Reasons to Get Involved in Local Campaigns

Children are often asked, what do you want to be when you grow up? Few of us said we wanted to be on the school board or run for mayor. As adults, however, we begin to realize that if we want quality individuals running our schools, towns and governments, we might need to step up ourselves. This may mean running for something, or helping those we believe in achieve their own victories. 

While it’s a scary time to get involved in politics, there is always a need for brave individuals with principle and fortitude to step up. I’ve seen it in a friend who is now running for school board in California and in another who is committed to campaigning and raising money for exceptional female candidates running for statewide offices. 

With so many things we can put our time and effort toward, why prioritize electing strong candidates? Why get involved in this aspect of our communities when there is so much mud-slinging and frustration? Patriotic Americans ought to be the first volunteers, understanding that we have an incredible system of government in the United States, and the only excuse we have for unfit leaders is ourselves. We elect them! 

Let’s talk about why we can and should become more involved in the process of local and national politics. 

1. There’s a need. In most cities, people need to be more informed about local issues and candidates. It’s tough to be aware of who people are and what they stand for. You can become a conduit of information through your networks. Or, you could actually step to run for office if that is an opportunity and you feel drawn toward it.

2. You have monetary means. Unfortunately, money – lots of it – is important in the world of politics. Supporting candidates monetarily can be a huge help to campaigns. Online donations, fundraiser attendance and more can help quality candidates raise more money for marketing their message in a wider variety of ways.

3. You are a leader. Not everyone is made for public speaking or leading groups, but some have a special skill. Charisma and the ability to persuade people are invaluable qualities that can really come in handy, whether you are running for office or helping galvanize people for the cause. Put those skills to use in whatever way you can.

4. Communication opportunity. We all have a network, whether just a few folks or thousands. Social media has given us each a platform and we can leverage these things to help others understand the candidates and the policies they stand for. Whether it’s a message on Facebook or starting your own newsletter, don’t neglect the platform space you have to help make a difference.

5. You have influence. Through our jobs, churches, organizational memberships or personal relationships, some people have more influence than others. If we know someone who has a louder megaphone or whom we can connect to the candidate we’re supporting, that’s invaluable. Connecting the right people for the right reasons can go such a long way. 

Running for office is an exhausting and vulnerable position to be in. If you know someone who feels called and has the character and experience to do the job well, you should help them win. If we don’t participate in this great political experience, we leave the doing to those who don’t have our best interest in mind. 

Being civically involved in this way isn’t as popular as it once was. Politics has gotten a dirty name. Sometimes, it’s deserved. Regardless, we need good people to help lead and implement the right policies for our nation. I hope you’ll consider getting involved in the process.