IGNITE's Guide to Running for Office: Step 3
Step 3: Get politically involved
There are several ways you can get politically involved to build your expertise and credibility around the office. Before running for office, you can mobilize voters, advocate for policies, organize your community, and so much more. For example:
Register voters
Attend a rally or march
Attend an online town hall
Intern for an elected
Spotlight: Mana Shooshtari
Mana Shooshtari, age 21, is the Field and Communications Coordinator for Grassroots Democrats HQ. What was supposed to be a part-time job, ramped up to 60 to 80 hour work weeks during the 2020 election. While she put in the hours for Grassroots Democrats HQ, Mana also served as an IGNITE the Vote Ambassador, helping IGNITE reach 6.5 million people with voting resources.
After the election it was her turn to run: in 2021 she was elected as a Delegate for California Assembly District 13.
Show up to meetings
Attend meetings of decision-making bodies like city council or school board.
- When are meetings open to the public?
- Find out what issues they plan to discuss at each of these meetings by looking at the agenda online.
- Attend those meetings, testify when there is an issue you care about.
- Participate in citizen advisory councils and similar groups when possible.
Volunteer on a campaign
Identify a candidate you believe in.
- Volunteer on their campaign. Volunteers often phone bank, knock on doors, and help with other voter contact
- Distinguish yourself on the campaign. Stay in touch with the candidate beyond the duration of the campaign.
- Make connections with other volunteers and campaign staff.
- If you want a job with the candidate after they win, be clear about that goal and ask about opportunities to stay on the team.
Get appointed to a Board or Commission
Board and commission members serve in an advisory role to help to direct policy by making suggestions and recommendations to their local elected policymakers and government management. Sitting on one of these boards/commissions provides you with expertise and credibility around a particular issue, an expansive network of political contacts, and increased name recognition.
- Which boards/commissions are available in your city?
- What is the process for appointment?
Examples of Boards and Commissions
Arts Commission
Youth Advisory Board
Parks Commission
School Board
Recommended Reading
Need more ideas on how to get politically engaged? Start reading!
Tips from an expert
Cacima Lee has worked on several high profile campaigns: Mike McGinn for Seattle Mayor, Rebeca Muniz’s Seattle School Board race, and Elizabeth Warren for President.
"Just like with any job, the first step to getting involved in a campaign is finding 'The One'. Don’t pick a candidate just because they’re ahead in the polls. Pick a candidate you believe in and would be proud to stand behind. Campaign work is more than just winning. It’s about building a movement that lasts years beyond the campaign itself."
