NationStates Jolt Archive


Electoral campaigning advice

Serconea
01-09-2004, 10:19
I will soon be running for elected office in my home region.

It's for one seat and I'll probably have two or three opponents, of which one will probably be the incumbent.

Any advice on how to campaign? I don't like negative campaigning.
Unfree People
01-09-2004, 15:56
10000 Islands has a very different campaigning style than most other regions. I'd ask for advice on your regional boards instead...
Sarzonia
01-09-2004, 16:04
I don't like negative campaigning. Make a case for what positives you can bring to the position if elected. Emphasize your strengths rather than your opponent's weaknesses. Focus on the issues your would-be constituency are concerned with.

Don't promise something you can't deliver. Saying something like, "I'll lower your taxes" and not delivering will be remembered unfavorably. Saying "I will work in Congress to lower your taxes" and not being able to get taxes lowered will be better, especially if you fought to lower those taxes.

Prepare yourself in the event your background would be questioned. Anticipate tough questions the media or voters would ask and prepare answers for them. If you're going to debate your opponent, do practice debates with people you know and trust and have an experienced debater give you pointers.

Cultivate a relationship with the media if possible. They can make or break you with their coverage of your campaign.