I am thinking about running for Kansas Rep. in 2006 What would be the

[greenbriar]

first things you would do???

[Stephanie]

1. You go girl!!

First talk to your family & friends, gather whatever support you can from your professional acquaintances, then approach your local Democratic organization to discuss the idea.

[calimary]

2. YES! I'd say pursue it!

You could REALLY speak for teachers.

[never_get_over_it]

3. If you're planning on running as a Dem

get active in the party now. I'm not sure how it is in Kansas but I'm sure you would have to "pay" your dues with the party to get their backing. Other wise to get on the ballot you probably have to get a certain number of signatures etc etc - your board of elections office should be able to help you.

[LittleApple81]

4. Congratulations! I think you have to make yourself known to the

Democratic "inside" group of activitists and politicians so that they can offer you clues on how to prepare and help when you are ready. I have heard that Nancy Boyda is running a good campaign...if she makes it against Ryun (hope, hope) she might be able to help you along.

[TlalocW]

5. Since it's Kansas...

Come out in favor of wheat. They love that shit there. :)

I'm originally from Kansas so I know! ;)

TlalocW

[greenbriar]

6. I went to the local DNC meeting today...it was AWESOME

and we have a really good candidate running against Brownsack

[greenbriar]

7. oh this would be Kansas State rep not US rep

not thinking that high yet

[mandyky]

8. Good advice so far, here's more

Research your opponent, if they are an incumbent look up their voting record, and devise your platform in ways you'd be different.

Contact some of the Dean Dozen people who are running for the first time and ask what they did.

Contact labor unions and school districts for support and to see how you can help them, if elected.

Contact state reps and senators, if they are democrats, in your area and get an idea of issues they face.

Can Representaives form exploratory committees? If so, start one, and start fundraising, now for that.

That's all I have for now. Good for you and GOOD LUCK!!

Oops, on edit - I see you are running for the kansas state house. Most of the advice I gave above is applicable still, though.

[Zidane]

9. You need to make LOTS of friends in the party

in the right places.... if you want backing from the party. This should be your number 1 priority & concern. Planning HOW to run is a waste of time unless you can get party backing in the first place to get to that point.

So...

1. Start working for the party now if you haven't already. I don't mean just going to an occasional event, but actually spending a good deal of your free time every other day doing something.

2. Make sure you don't alientate people within the party. Doing so with certain people could be a quick career limiting move.

3. If other persons are planning on seeking endorsement from the party you'll need to one-up them in some way. Otherwise it will be them instead of you.

4. Possibly wait beyond 2006, but don't let it discourage you & keep working for the party. You might not get party backing so soon unless you are well connected already.

Probably not a good idea to run independent. For one, you'll be accomplishing as much as Nader (maybe making so kind of statement), but that's about it. If you hurt the dem candidate you might also make dem enemies (again, see Nader) making it more unlikely you would get dem support in the future.

There are a ton of internal politics in the party (of course). Make sure you can surivive in such an environment. Frankly, weak contenders don't make it very far. Just keep your eyes on the prize and don't give up. Remember, if you're serious it's going to a ton of work and possible disapointments on the way.

[greenbriar]

10. thanks for the advice

Kerry asked last night to be a part..

I want to BE A PART

[Onlooker]

11. A few thoughts

You need the Democratic establishment to win a primary, to get financing, and to guarantee yourself x% of the vote. But, to the win the election:

- Figure out who you need to win the election (Democrats, people of color, gays, small business owners, teachers, etc.) Get involved in some volunteer activities that are nonpolitical and attract centrists.
- Every time you shop or go out, try to visit a different store or different place and just be friendly.
- Figure out the issues you stand for and brainstorm with friends about how to communicate your stands.
- Don't try to win over right-wingers. It's a waste of time.
- Don't allow yourself to get caught up in issues that have little to do with the position you're running for.
- For positions where you think you're more liberal than your community, figure out palatable ways to prevent your views or to hide your views. You want to get elected in part so you're in a power position to introduce your views. Do what you have to do to get into that position, and then speak more openly and honestly.
- Write letters to the editor where you take "sensible" positions. E.g., take stands on issues where you happen to agree with the majority.
- Try to make a friend with someone in the local media.
- Remember, a lot of people who vote don't like politics, but they may vote for you because they relate to you, your profession, your looks, your personality, your charity work, and so on.

[Neecy]

12. what district?

There are plenty of Kansans here, so you know you'll have a big ol' group of volunteers!

I agree that now is the time to get involved in your local party. I met someone very active in the JoCo party at a moveon event and she said that there are a number of openings in the state for precinct committeepersons. Vacancies can be appointed, so contact your local party and put in the time. Getting to know local labor leaders is also a good first step. Good luck, and let us know when you declare so we can help out...!

[KansDem]

15. Third district, by chance?

I believe it is the most progressive district in Kansas. Dennis Moore (D) is running for his fourth term there this year.

(edited for clarity)

[sleipnir]

13. Do it!!!! Don't stop!

We need as many Dems running in Kansas as we can get. This is coming from a Kansan who has since moved to other lands, but still, I have bemoaned the lack of activism in the Dem party in Kansas. That was until the recent Dean infusion, which has jumpstarted all of politics and put the Rethugs on notice.

I'm not sure what district you'd run in, but it's a tough group out there right now. I'd give a million pesos to see the look on Ryun's face when he gets put out of office and back in the wacko-right-wing gutter where he and the majority of his family belong.

[newyawker99]

14. Do it Pam and good luck!

:thumbsup:

[ClassWarrior]

16. Go Pam!!

First thing I'd do - and I've thought about elected office myself - is come up with my "uber-message" and then build everything I do in the next two years around that message. Make it short, poignant, and relevant, then hammer it home.

You go, Girl. If I can help, please don't hesitate to ask.

[AnnInLa]

17. As a teacher, you MUST

if not already a member, (but I suspect you are)join your local affiliate of the National Education Association....get their backing, they are a powerful ally.