Want To Run for
Public Office?
I had never held public office before I decided to
run for a seat on the Redwood City School
Board. I ran because I was worried about the quality of
education my two sons were getting.
Most people who run for
office are like me-they have one or more burning
issues they want to address. But before you run for office, you need to
know a few things. Here are my suggestions.
1. Know the law
- find out the election date and the associated filing deadlines, the
rules for raising money, the requirements for office and other types
general legal information.
2. Raise money
- it's going to take money to win an election and it's best to start
getting it early.
3. Get clued in
- what are the issues? What is unique about the community? Who are the
opinion leaders? Learn about the office and what the job is really all
about.
4. Know yourself
- can you take the pressure? Are you a team player? Can you work
with other people whose opinions may be very different than your own? Is
running something you really want to do because if elected, the hard
part starts. You have to deliver on those campaign promises.
I strongly encourage
you to run for public office. It can be rewarding and you really can
make a difference in the community. I would be happy to discuss other
issues with you about running for office and how to win - just send me
an email. |
