Step 1 of 6
Understand the opportunity
Before you file, know what you'd be signing up for. These guides explain what local offices actually do, how much time they take, and how partisan and nonpartisan races differ.
- What county council members doCounty boards set the budget, pass local laws and decide where tax dollars go. Here is what the work looks like before you put your name on the ballot.
- What school board members doThe school board governs the district. It doesn't run the schools day to day. Knowing the difference is the first thing a good candidate learns.
- What city council members and mayors doYour city's charter and form of government decide how much power the mayor has and what council members spend their time on. Learn it before you run.
- County row offices explainedBesides the county council, many counties elect officials to run specific offices. These are full-time jobs with real responsibilities, and some come with extra qualifications.
- Partisan vs. nonpartisan racesWhether a party label appears next to your name changes how you get on the ballot, who you campaign to and, for some public employees, whether you can run at all.
- The time and family commitmentBefore you file, take an honest look at the hours a campaign and the office will ask of you, and of the people you live with.