So, you’re thinking about running for office … GREAT!

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What office(s) CAN I run for in 2026?

• Local
• State
• Federal

What office SHOULD I run for?

• This is a different question than “What office can I run for?”
• Elected positions serve different parts of the community, have different
• missions and responsibilities, and require different time commitments. It is
• important to consider all of these things when deciding to run for office.

Should you run for office?

• Where are you from?
• How long have you been a resident where you live?
• What do you love about your community?
• What do you want to change in your community?
• Have you thought of running before? If yes, what stopped you?

Who can help you run for office?

• You will need volunteers and other supporters to help you be successful in
• your campaign.
• Who from your personal network can you tap into to help?
• Friends/Family/Colleagues

Who in the community can help you?

• Your local Democratic Party
• Civic/Political organizations in the community
• Your county elections office is available to answer questions about
• filing petitions, deadlines, reports, etc.
• Those with a personal/professional interest or stake in the office that you’re running for

WHY are you running for office?

• Consider your WHY and then build your platform and message from that.
• What is your platform?
• What problems are you trying to solve?
• What is your core message?
• Problem 2. Solution(s) 3. Vision for the Future

LOGISTICAL QUESTIONS

• How do you get your name on the ballot?
• Do you need a Political Committee?
• Do you need a campaign manager?
• Do you need a campaign treasurer?
• How much do you need to fundraise?

What additional questions do you have?

What is holding you back from running?

What do you still need to run?

Email Todd at toddpzimmerman@yahoo.com. Christine Marmas is the ultimate authority on all things to do with elections for the Schuylkill Election Bureau. Her number is 570-628-1467 and her email address is cmarmas@schuylkillcountypa.gov.