So You Think You Want To Run For Office (Part 1)

So, you are thinking of running for a political office. There are a few things to consider. Actually, there is a lot to consider. As a campaign strategist, this is the advice I give would-be candidates.

Running For Office: First Things First

Election cycles are like trains, there is always one coming. The problem is, the train does not slowdown in order for you to get on.

The most important question every candidate should have is:

When do I try and jump on?

Timing is critical. There are many moving parts, and they all have to be ready to jump with you. There are fleeting opportunities to maximize your chances of a victory.

The 2018 Midterm Election was a race where it was preferable to be an underdog, to be an outsider, even a first time candidate. Historically, midterms are a tough time if a victory needs tremendous voter turnout, except in 2018. In 2020, that might not be true. It probably won’t be true. Every election is unique.

If you don’t understand the political climate, you are not going to be able to choose the best time to run. And if you don’t know, find someone who does. This is what political strategists do.

The first question is not if you want to run, because you probably have a tremendous desire to serve. Even if you believe your candidacy is ordained by whatever God you worship, you need to ask if now is a…