👟So you’ve decided to run for office… now what?

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Enroll in NDTC’s Launch Your Political Campaign training to learn how to launch your campaign with confidence. From getting on the ballot to building your budget and connecting with voters, this multi-course training path will walk you through each step!

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Step 1: Evaluate the Opportunity

Before you file, review the Thinking About Running? guide to ask yourself to following key questions:

1. Understand the race

   Research your potential office:

   • What are the powers and responsibilities?
   • Who currently holds the seat?
   • Are there term limits?
   • What are the district boundaries?
   • Is it a partisan or nonpartisan race?
   • What’s the election timeline?

2. Assess your readiness

   Reflect on your capacity and motivation:

   • Is this the right time in my life?
   • Do I understand the key issues in this office?
   • What community involvement or leadership experience do I bring?
   • Would my skills be better used supporting other candidates or causes?

3. Talk with key people

   • Speak with family and friends about how a campaign might impact them.
   • Reach out to your County Democratic Parties

Step 2: Do Your Due Diligence

Ensure there are no surprises once you file:

1. Check your voter registration

   • Confirm your registration is active and accurate at **RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov.**
   • Check the Qualifications for Elected Offices page to review additional requirements for your intended office

2. Review your online presence

   • Clean up old posts or photos you wouldn’t want to see in a mailer.
   • Run a background check on yourself and resolve any minor issues (e.g., parking tickets).

3. Read key resources

   • Review the Campaign Checklist for a comprehensive guide on the first steps to take before filing to run!
   • Federal Candidates should read through the Federal Election Commission resources
   • Non-Federal Candidates should review the Candidate and Campaign Treasurer Handbook, Political Committee Handbook, and Campaign Finance information

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   Local and Municipal Candidates should reach out to their Supervisor of Elections to review election and qualifying information.

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Step 3: Plan and Prepare

1. Clarify your message
   • Practice answering: “Why are you running?” by enrolling in NDTC’s **Story of Self: Crafting and Sharing Your Story training!
   • Check out Messaging for more direct guidance!
2. Review qualifications
   • Check out Qualifications for Elected Offices to confirm office-specific requirements.