Hmmm… Maybe? Maybe Not? I’m confused
It is not normal for a 20 year old to be fielding questions of “political ambitions” or if or when I’m running for office from the media, from community members, family members and friends.
It just isn’t normal. 20 (almost 21) years old?
Could it be done? Should it be done? Would I even be able to do it?
I’ve been told that for smaller, local races I’d have to have at least $5,000 - $10,000 to run a viable campaign, which is all I could really hope for. The chances of such a young candidate winning are slim. The trick, or so I’ve been told, is to run a campaign that people will remember and look kindly on after the election is over and if you’ve lost it.
I do know that it shouldn’t be taken lightly that I’m being asked these questions. I’m well aware of how good or nice or big it is to have community members you barely know, as well as media, ask you if you are running for office or tell you that you should.
I’m confused… and I don’t have an answer. I usually have the answers and this time I don’t… And it’s bothering me.
About the Author: Matt
3 Responses to “Hmmm… Maybe? Maybe Not? I’m confused”
That $5k-$10k means money in the bank just to open an office… look at what other candidates have raised (from the SBOE site) through their entire campaign, and figure that you’ll need 10% of that at the beginning simply to consider running.
By Ryan on Nov 19, 2006
Ryan:Â “smaller, local races”
My desk in the spare room of my apartment or in the living room could be my office. Call me fiscally conservative if you want, but I like saving money.
By Matt on Nov 19, 2006
You may be able to get a decent chunk of money from some of the state or local gay PACs. They’re always looking to elect local candidates. It doesn’t cost them too much and the common wisdom–true or not–is that getting into lots of local positions is the best way to build a national message.
By Sam on Nov 20, 2006