Political Campaign Tips and Strategies by Online Candidate

Write an Optimized Political Press Release

A well-written online press release is an essential publicity tool for political campaigning. Think of a press release as a concise, news-driven narrative about your campaign, specifically crafted for distribution to media contacts. In this article, we cover when to write a press release, the best practices in writing one, and how to promote your release when it’s ready.

Examples of newsworthy press releases:

There are many times during a campaign when it makes sense to put out an announcement.

Entry into a political race: Announces a candidate’s decision to run, marking their official entry into the election race.
Political campaign launch: A candidacy announcement press release kicks off the campaign, highlighting its key themes and objectives.
Policy proposal announcement: Unveils new and detailed policy platforms, outlining the candidate’s specific plans and approaches to key issues.
Voter outreach campaign: Details initiatives aimed at engaging and connecting with specific voter demographics.
Coalition formation announcement: Publicizes the creation of supportive groups or alliances, showcasing broad-based support and collaborative efforts.
Campaign milestone celebration: Shares notable achievements in the campaign, such as reaching fundraising goals or significant organizational benchmarks.
Financial transparency report: Provides an overview of the campaign’s financial status, highlighting fundraising amounts and demonstrating financial transparency.
Upcoming event or fundraiser: Promotes an event, driving attendance and fundraising efforts.
Campaign event recap: Summarizes the achievements and highlights of recent campaign events or rallies, emphasizing their impact and success.
Candidate position statement: Clarifies the candidate’s stance on specific issues or policies.
Focus on local issues: Addresses key topics and concerns that are important to specific constituent’s communities or regions, reflecting the campaign’s commitment to local and regional interests.
Key endorsements: Publicizes support from influential figures or organizations to boost credibility.
News related to the campaign: Shares significant developments or milestones within the campaign.
Reaction to a recent event: Provides the candidate’s perspective or response to current events or issues.
Reaction to an opponent’s comment or action: Addresses and counters statements or actions by political rivals.
A public apology: Addresses mistakes or controversies, aiming to restore public trust.
Post-election announcement: Delivers a victory speech or concession, outlining the next steps post-election.
Crisis management: This release responds to emergencies or scandals, aiming to manage and mitigate negative impacts.

Press releases are also an important part of an online press kit and play a key part in any political campaign’s playbook. When done right, a press release grabs the media’s attention and helps shape the story they tell about the candidate. This is important because it’s not just about getting coverage; it’s about steering the conversation. The right press release can sway public opinion, helping voters see the candidate in a positive light.

It’s all about controlling the narrative and making sure the candidate’s key messages hit home with voters, no matter the situation.

Time your releases for maximum effect

Entry into the race: The timing of your important announcement will vary based on the position sought, the campaign, and the opposition. Announcing too early will have less impact than when it is closer to the election season. Once you’ve officially announced your entry into the race, you’ve basically ‘thrown your hat in the ring’. Then you are fair game for whatever comes along. Just be sure you are ready before you make that big announcement.
Website announcement: Simultaneously announcing your candidacy and your campaign’s website is ideal, but only do this if you have a working website.
Position statements: Address issues as they arise with strong position statements. This lets the voting public know where you stand. They also provide a good reference for your campaign staff, keeping everyone on the same page.
Endorsements: When possible, coordinate the endorsement press release with the endorser so that they are released together for maximum impact.
Campaign event: The timing of this can be variable. Your supporters will typically know about the event before it is made public. If it is an event that requires reservations, be sure to promote it early. If it is an open event or fundraiser, you may want to do several releases, with the final one just before the event.
Post-fundraiser event: Send this press release as soon as possible. Use this opportunity to promote the host or special guest. It’s a great way to re-emphasize your campaign endorsements.

Additional situations requiring public comment

Reaction to an opponent’s comment or action: In the heat of a campaign, swift responses are crucial. Don’t delay in making a statement if necessary.
Political apology: Sometimes things go wrong on the campaign, sometimes terribly so. If a candidate makes a gaffe that requires a public apology, the best way to handle this is through a release that succinctly states the candidate’s or campaign’s position and apologizes as needed. Do these as soon as possible and move forward.
Post-election press release: Win or lose, take time to thank your supporters publicly soon after the election results are finalized. Personalized letters should be sent to individuals as well. This should be done soon after the election results are finalized, but not so soon that it appears that the thank-you was pre-written.

How to write a political press release

First, make sure you actually have a newsworthy story. Each campaign press release should focus on a single story or issue.

Now, let’s ensure your press release not only informs but also stands out. Here are some key elements to include:

Step 1: Clear Headline and Subheadline: Your title should be catchy and engaging while encapsulating your campaign’s essence. Incorporate relevant keywords, such as the district or office you’re running for, to optimize search engine visibility.

Step 2: Summary in the First Paragraph: Begin with a succinct overview of your story, emphasizing its newsworthiness. Consider starting with a compelling fact related to your campaign. Keep sentences and paragraphs concise for easy readability.

Step 3: Detailed Body: Dive into the main body, providing comprehensive information about your campaign, candidate, or key issues. Support your statements with credible research or statistics. Maintain a focused and businesslike tone, utilizing the active voice. Including quotes from the candidate or other relevant individuals can enhance credibility and reader engagement.

Use the Third Person: Always write your press releases in the third person to maintain professionalism and objectivity.

Step 4: Conclusion and Contact Information: Summarize the main points and direct readers to where to find additional information. Include a clear call to action, guiding readers on their next steps. Include your organization’s contact details, such as a name, email address, website link, and phone number. This information helps facilitate follow-ups from journalists or interested parties. You can also include a “Paid for” disclaimer if it is not clear who is behind the release.

Step 5: Conciseness is Key: Keep your press release concise, with a maximum of around 300 words. Proofread meticulously to avoid errors. Timing is critical, so plan your releases strategically to allow for proper editing and publication by the media. Consider your distribution strategy to ensure maximum reach and impact.

Additional writing tips:

Use Subheadings for Improved Organization: To enhance readability and organization, consider adding subheadings within your press release.
Engagement Through Real-World Examples: To make the content more engaging, incorporate real-world examples or case studies where relevant.
Citations for Credibility: When discussing statistics or research, provide citations or references to bolster the credibility of your information.
Conclusion: End your article with a brief summary of key takeaways, reinforcing the importance of effective political press releases.

Avoid the temptation to ‘editorialize’ your release with unsourced facts or opinions. Write your release in an unbiased manner that is factual and accurate. Editors may remove fluff and hype, or they may disregard your release altogether.

What should you do with your release after it’s written?

Writing a campaign release is one thing. Getting it out to the masses is another. To boost your press release’s visibility, consider implementing the following additional steps:

Post your release to your website: Dedicate a section on your website for news and updates, where you can publish your press releases.
Share it on social media: Leverage your social media accounts to share a link to your press release on your website. Encourage your followers to share it as well, expanding its reach.
Submit to newspapers and local media outlets: Customize your press release to fit the editorial standards for local newspaper submission. Make it as easy as possible for editors to consider your release by ensuring it’s well-written and ready for publishing.
Share with public relations syndication services. There are a number of paid online press release distribution services, like EIN Presswire and Ciscion PRWeb. Local races usually do not need the wide syndication that some services offer. And don’t assume that your story will be picked up by a major news outlet, either. It probably won’t.

When dealing with media outlets, try to develop a relationship with reporters and editors. Part of your media strategy should be to help reporters cover your campaign. You can’t tell them what to write, but you can help them with the facts and information. Being easily available for an interview or comment can also help a candidate get more exposure.

Most campaign releases do not need to be released to a nationwide audience. If you are interested in wider distribution, consider using paid PR services. For a fee, these services distribute your release to top-tier media outlets, such as CBS, NBC, national newspapers, Google News, and Bing News. You can also include additional images, videos, and other profile-related content.

Finally, a good political news release requires accuracy. Interesting headlines and well-organized content are essential. Timely replies and strategic dissemination boost impact. Mastering these basics will help your campaign exposure and help spread your message.

Example Press Release Announcing Campaign:

For Immediate Release

Simon Smith Announces Candidacy for Supervisor of TinyTown

TinyTown, [State] — [Date] — Today, Simon Smith, a long-time resident and dedicated community member of TinyTown, formally announced his candidacy for the position of Town Supervisor. With a focus on fiscal responsibility and community-driven policies, Smith is committed to steering TinyTown towards a sustainable and prosperous future.

In his announcement, Smith emphasized the urgent need for financial reform: "We need to get TinyTown's budget under control and reduce spending."

Smith, who has been instrumental in various community initiatives over the years, brings a wealth of experience to his candidacy. His background in business and six-year stint on the Town Board helps him understand the needs of TinyTown's residents.

As Supervisor, Simon Smith plans to:

Implement comprehensive budget reforms to ensure fiscal stability.

Foster transparency and accountability in town governance.

Promote community engagement in decision-making processes.

Encourage sustainable development that aligns with the town's character and values.

Smith's campaign is built on the pillars of integrity, responsibility, and community. He is committed to making TinyTown not just a place to live, but a thriving community where every resident has a voice.

For more information about Simon Smith and his campaign for TinyTown Supervisor, visit SimonSmithSupervisor.com.

Contact:

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Name: [Campaign Contact Person]
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Email: [Contact Email]
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Phone: [Contact Phone Number]
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Campaign Website: [Website URL]
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Paid for by Friends of Simon Smith

Don’t recreate the wheel. Create professional, powerful press releases with our Political Letter Templates. It includes easy-to-use letter and press release templates that you can use right away in your campaign correspondence.

Gear Up for November – Time to Kickstart Your Campaign!

We hope you’re doing well and enjoying the last remnants of summer. But here’s a friendly reminder: Labor Day has come and gone, and the political season is officially here.

If you’re already gearing up for an election in November, great! If if you haven’t started, don’t panic; there’s still time, but the clock is ticking.

Here are some essential actions you should be taking in September to ensure you’re on the right track for a successful November election:

Craft Your Message: Your message should resonate with your constituents. What’s your campaign s unique selling point? What issues matter most to your community? Hone in on these and articulate them clearly.

Launch Your Campaign Website: It’s non-negotiable. Your candidate website is the hub of your online campaign. It should be informative, user-friendly, and visually appealing. Share your vision, mission, and key issues. Make it easy for supporters to donate, volunteer, and get in touch.

Conquer Social Media: Create profiles on major social platforms like Facebook, Instagram and X/Twitter. Consistency is key – post regularly, engage with your audience, and don’t shy away from being authentic.

Build an Email List: Start collecting email addresses from supporters. An engaged email list is a campaign’s secret weapon. Send out regular updates, policy highlights, and calls to action.

Fundraising Frenzy: Launch your fundraising efforts ASAP. Host fundraisers, set up donation links on your website, and reach out to donors. Every dollar counts in politics. (And open a campaign bank account!)

Offline Activities: Remember, it’s not all about the digital world. Attend local events, town halls, and meetings. Start canvassing, distribute flyers, and build a grassroots network.

Volunteer Recruitment: Every campaign needs help—and a lot of it. Start recruiting, training, and organizing volunteers. They can be your boots on the ground and your voice in the community.

Policy Development: Remember the first point about crafting your message? You’ll want to fine-tune your policies and be prepared to discuss them with constituents and the media.

Legal Compliance: Don’t forget the paperwork and filing dates! Ensure your campaign is compliant with all election laws and regulations.

Debate Prep: If you’re facing debates this fall, begin preparing now. Practice your talking points and anticipate potential questions. Practice in front of a group for feedback.

Remember, this is a brief overview of what’s needed over the next few months. The key is to stay focused and organized. Maintain a steady presence both online and offline.

The road towards victory is challenging, but with commitment and an effective strategy, you can make it happen!

For more content, social media templates, and tools, visit OnlineCandidateResources.com.

Harnessing AI’s Creative Power for Your Political Campaign

From congressional and state campaigns to even local races, candidates have embraced artificial intelligence tools to improve their campaigns in a variety of ways.

When generative AI (artificial intelligence) exploded on the scene in late 2022, it was a tipping point that launched an explosion of innovation and creative tools.

A primary use of AI is to enhance content creation. This typically includes writing or enhancing social media posts, advertising copy, email newsletters, and website material. Many political campaigns and consultants today are using generative AI.

Wait, what is generative AI? It’s a type of technology that helps create text, images, voice, and even music. It’s like having a smart writer or artist on your computer who can come up with new and original things by learning from lots of examples. Just like you might learn to draw by looking at many pictures, generative AI learns from a massive set of training data and then uses that information to make its own unique creations.

AI is evolving and upgrading rapidly. It’s a bit like how the Internet started evolving in the late 1900s, but on a much faster scale.

Understanding ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a generative AI model developed by OpenAI. It is designed to understand and generate human-like text. Based on user input, or prompts, it generates coherent and contextually relevant responses in a conversational format. During a conversation, ChatGPT remembers the conversation history along with the current user prompt to predict and generate the next logical response.

While it may seem intelligent, ChatGPT and other generative AI tools do not possess true understanding or intelligence. Instead, it generates responses, or outputs, that are based on patterns it has learned through its training data.

In its most basic form, ChatGPT is easy to use. Here’s an example of how it works:

Setting the Stage: Start by giving ChatGPT a prompt. For instance, let’s say you want to brainstorm ideas about a specific campaign topic. You may want to begin with an explanation of what you are looking for. “Assume the role of a political advisor. Here are the basic points of our campaign platform for [issue type].” Then include an overview of a specific issue and your position on it. You may want to go into some detail on this.
Guiding the AI: You input a prompt like, “Give me 5 ideas for a blog post about [issue].”
AI Output: ChatGPT processes your prompt and uses its knowledge to craft five unique ideas for your blog post, based on the earlier information you provided. This provides you with a variety of concepts to consider.

Sample Prompts:

Draft Campaign Updates: “Write a social media post about our stance on education reform.”
Tailor Messaging: “Here is our issue position: [Add your text.] Craft a message for suburban voters emphasizing our commitment to [issue].”
Polish Communication: “Edit this email to make it more persuasive and impactful. Our audience is voters who [add detail].”

Most AI tools use a similar prompting method, though some may include form fields instead.

While AI can provide valuable assistance, the user is ultimately accountable. AI should be utilized as a valuable tool rather than a substitute for real voices and opinions.

There are new AI tools and applications being launched every month. Some focus on text; others, like Midjourney, can be used to create unique images. There are even applications for video and audio use.

Enhancing your campaign content with AI

There are many ways that AI can elevate your campaign content. Here are some ideas:

Content Generation: AI can be prompted to generate or rewrite social media posts, press releases, brochure text, campaign website copy, phone scripts, canvassing scripts, and more. Beyond text, you can prompt the output to include such things as emojis and hashtags.
Cultivating Ideas: Based on your prompts, the AI can generate creative ideas that your team can expand upon. This requires prompts that encourage the AI to brainstorm ideas related to your campaign’s themes, issues, and events.
Optimizing Content: Refine your content by providing specific guidelines and objectives for improvement. For example, you can instruct the AI to write or rewrite content to specific readability levels, grammatical standards, and stylistic preferences. One tip is to instruct the AI not only to suggest specific edits but to explain why it did so.
Personalizing Material: You can take your existing content and prompt AI to modify it to appeal more to a specific demographic. For example, you may want to refine your health care information for senior citizens so that it focuses on aspects that apply to the elderly.

In more advanced uses, an AI can be primed by providing it with large amounts of data. This may include campaign content, speeches, interview transcripts, and social media posts. From that material, the tool learns the nuances of tone and style. This enables it to create content that sounds more like the candidate.

An AI can write well and can come across as authoritative. But it sometimes lacks the warmth of a human writer. This can lead to content that’s technically accurate but just feels hollow. AI generated content also has the tendency to repeat phrases or ideas.

Anything that an AI assists in creating should always be carefully reviewed and edited for accuracy, tone, and consistency.

Local candidates often need help writing

Many of our clients have two main issues when coming up with content for their campaign websites. The first is coming up with introductory text to introduce themselves to voters.

The second is coming up with a candidate biography. Some clients tend to add either a bully pointed resume or a personal story that neither ties in why the candidate is running or gives reasons why a voter should support them.

Fortunately, with the right information, generative AI can help candidates put together a good bio and letter of introduction. There are links below to our own tools that can help with the process.

While an AI can write well and with seeming confidence, it sometimes lacks the warmth that real human writers possess. This can potentially lead to content that’s technically accurate but emotionally hollow.

Anything that an AI assists in creating should always be carefully reviewed and edited for accuracy, tone, and consistency.

Empowering your visual identity with AI

AI tools can create and improve images with ever-increasing skill. Popular AI image tools today include Midjourney and DALL-E. Here are some ways that AI images can be incorporated into your campaign:

Issue Illustration and Visual Representation: Use AI images to distill complex policy issues into accessible infographics and visuals. This can help ensure that readers will comprehend complex information.
Social Media Graphics: Create graphics that help amplify core messaging and improve audience engagement.
Comparative Imagery: Side-by-side visuals can be used to outline the contrasts between campaign positions and those held by opponents.

Notice that we did not include the use of generated images of people, faces, or specific locales in our recommendations. AI-generated faces of individuals, real or fake, may tarnish a campaign’s credibility.

Unauthorized usage or a lack of disclosure of AI-generated or manipulated photographs could also pose issues. There may be ethical concerns about privacy or the alteration of people’s likenesses. Legal and copyright issues are another risk, especially if the AI was trained on copyrighted content.

A well-balanced use of AI-generated imagery is recommended. This means combining both AI and human creativity to produce visually appealing material.

Note that AI-generated material might not fully replace the skills of experienced graphic designers or capture the proper emotions or context.

Political data analysis

AI is great at data analysis and predictive modeling. Here are a few ways to apply AI for analysis:

Data-Driven Insights: Provide relevant datasets, such as documents, reports, and public sentiments that relate to policies. The AI then analyzes this data to spot important patterns and trends. This analysis can be used in a variety of ways, such as establishing a candidate’s policy stances.

Harvesting Ideas: Crowdsource policy ideas by analyzing social media conversations, public opinions, and policy discussions. Have the AI identify commonly discussed policy concepts, voter concerns, and general sentiment.
Opposition Analysis: Input your opponents’ speeches and written materials for analysis. Task the AI to identify inconsistencies, patterns, and potential weaknesses in the text. This can help you uncover strategic insights.

Keep in mind that AI-generated output might occasionally miss the mark. It may also lack the contextual understanding that comes from human intuition and experience.

Other creative uses

With the right resources, you can expand AI’s creative roles in ways beyond text and images. For example, AI-powered chatbots could be created with conversational flows and responses that cater to different types of inquiries. The AI learns from the conversations and learns to communicate better.

As mentioned above, there are AI video creation, transcription, and editing tools out there. Some can translate audio files to text. Other tools, like Grammarly, assist in writing and editing copy.

AI can be leveraged for targeted advertising with the use of audience information. It analyzes the data to recommend ad content and messaging strategies that will resonate with the audience.

There are almost endless ways that the technology can be used. New tools are released continuously, each with different features, capabilities, and price points.

And while AI has already made an impact on our general lives, there are serious issues concerning data privacy and the ethical use of AI technology in politics.

AI and deepfakes

The rise of deepfakes and manipulated content is a growing concern. It’s often hard enough to believe what politicians say, but adding a mix of manipulated and fake material into the political discourse can only make things worse.

Images: AI-generated images can be realistic but raise authenticity concerns. Misuse can spread misinformation and even manipulate public perception.
Video: Deepfake videos convincingly manipulate faces and statements. They can spread false information and damage reputations. For example, imagine a deepfake video altering a candidate’s speech to portray them advocating for policies they do not support.
Audio: AI can synthesize a person’s speech from just a sample recording. This technology can be used to make deceptive audio content.

As of this writing, the industry still anticipates guidance on the boundaries of generative AI, including any requirements to disclose the use of AI content. Until then, those who use the tools are left to determine their ethical use. Our recommendation is to not rely too heavily on these platforms. We don’t advise using technology to fabricate voices or generate realistic images. If you do, be careful. In every case, the trust of voters should be considered.

As with any technology, there will be bad actors. But addressing the risks and emphasizing ethical application will help ensure that these tools are used properly.

See our entire suite of AI tools for political campaigns:

OnlineCandidateResources.com provides resources, creative templates, and tools for political campaigns.

Introducing Our New Website Maintenance Services

We are pleased to introduce our latest offering – Website Maintenance Services – designed to streamline your experience in managing your Online Candidate website.

Why We Started This Service:

At Online Candidate, we’ve always valued client feedback and suggestions. Some have expressed the desire for professional assistance with campaign site updates. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our Website Maintenance Service – to cater to your needs and provide you with a hassle-free solution.

Maintain Control, Your Way:

We understand the importance of retaining control over your website. You always have the option to update your site on your own or take advantage of our update services whenever you choose.

Here to Help:

Our maintenance service brings you a range of benefits to your Online Candidate website management:

Here to help: Simply send us the content and design changes you need, and we will take care of them promptly and efficiently.
Save Time: We recognize the value of your time. Let us handle the updates, freeing you to focus on your political mission.
Quick Turnaround: We commit to delivering your updates within one business day.
Fast, Complete Updates: As the creators of the Online Candidate content system, we are well-versed in its workings. Most updates can be completed within the quarter-hour minimum time.
Flexible Options: You have the flexibility to submit change requests as needed.

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions, visit our Website Maintenance Service page.

3 Online Campaigning Facts and Myths

In the world of online campaigning, it can be tempting and dangerous to make assumptions. When it comes to digital strategies, it’s easy to make decisions based on outdated information. So, let’s bust a few myths that many candidates have when starting an online political campaign.

Myth: A Facebook page can replace a campaign website

Fact: While most political campaigns have a Facebook page, it should not take the place of a dedicated campaign website. Facebook certainly has an enormous audience and offers a variety of tools for engaging with supporters.

But it also has limitations.

Facebook is a closed network, meaning content visibility relies on users being members of the platform. This exclusivity can restrict your reach, as not everyone is a Facebook user. Additionally, the platform’s terms and conditions can be stringent, leading to potential content removal and suspension risks.

On top of that, Facebook’s algorithm limits the organic reach of your posts to just a fraction of your followers. (Maybe 5% if you’re lucky.) To ensure your message reaches your audience, you will need to invest in advertising or boosting posts, which has its own costs.

The best approach is to treat social media platforms as valuable tools for engagement. It’s your campaign website where you have complete control over your content and messaging.

There’s a saying, “Don’t build your home on someone else’s land.” Remember that your social media content only exists at the pleasure of the social media platforms. That can change anytime.

Myth: The internet will pull in donations effortlessly

Fact: While the internet has opened up new fundraising opportunities, simply having a website or donation buttons is not a guarantee that anyone will contribute. Online fundraising requires careful planning, strategic coordination, and active engagement with potential donors.

To maximize your online fundraising efforts, integrate your digital presence with offline events and outreach. Let them know how they can help and persuade them to give.

Remember that all fundraising success is a result of consistent effort, creativity, and the ability to showcase the impact donor’s contributions.

Myth: Candidates can wait until the last minute to start online campaigning

Fact: Early online campaigning is essential to building a strong and engaged online community. Candidates who wait until a month before the election to start an online presence are missing the boat. While getting online is not difficult, building a level of online exposure takes time. If you are on a tight budget, it makes sense to start raising seed money as early as possible. One of the best ways to do this is through online fundraising.

Creating a positive and accurate online presence takes time and effort. Start by refining your existing digital footprint and establishing a presence on major social media platforms. Build a following of friends and supporters, and nurture these relationships over time.

By having an established digital presence, you can leverage your network when officially announcing your candidacy. By having an early number of online supporters, you can leverage that existing network to gain more immediate exposure.

Additional Online Myths:

Myth: Social media is the only online advertising you need

Fact: Email marketing, a campaign website, and other online advertising channels should complement social media advertising. Diversifying your digital strategy increases your audience reach. And, of course, you’ll still need traditional advertising methods like direct mail and canvassing.

Myth: Online campaigning is only for young voters

Fact: Like your constituency, online audiences encompass people of all ages and backgrounds. Tailor your message to resonate with various demographics. And be prepared to engage with supporters from all walks of life.

Online campaigning can make a big difference in your election, but you need a strategy to harness the full potential of the digital landscape.

For less than the cost of a mailing, you can have a complete campaign website. Online Candidate website packages contain an easy-to-use campaign website builder, built-in pages and forms, and free access to exclusive resources, including our suite of political AI tools.

It’s Summer – Time To Get Your Political Campaign Underway!

For most people, the summer means long, lazy days, fun in the sun, and family vacations.

But if you have an election this fall or a primary coming up, now is not the time for relaxing by the pool.

Labor Day is considered the traditional start of the political campaigning season. By then, party primaries have ended, and voters are just starting to pay attention to the upcoming elections. However, if you wait until the end of August to start the groundwork for your offline and online campaign, you’ve waited too long.

Starting your campaign preparations early ensures you’re not scrambling last minute. You’ll experience a smoother process and have time to address unexpected issues. Early groundwork during the summer lets you build a solid foundation of volunteers, voters and donors, so by the time the traditional campaign season starts in September, you’re already ahead. This preparation will reduce stress and increase your confidence because you’ll already have systems in place and will be ready to focus on voter engagement.

Successful candidates plan ahead. Over the next few months, you’ll need to get your campaign plan together, raise initial funds, and get your campaign staff and volunteers organized. Here are a few things you’ll want to work on during the dog days of summer…

Get your finances in order

Appointing a campaign treasurer right away means you’ll have someone dedicated to managing your funds, ensuring your financial activities are legal and organized. This can prevent financial missteps and allow you to focus on campaigning.

Do you plan on raising and spending money for your election? If so, you’ll want to appoint a campaign treasurer and create a bank checking account. You’ll need one if you plan to take online donations. Start early as it can take time for an online donation service to verify your account and set up donation pages.

If your campaign is large enough, setting up a finance team to handle budgeting and spending tracking can make a huge difference. This team will set up the campaign’s budget, track all expenditures, and ensure that the campaign abides by all relevant laws and regulations. For federal congressional campaigns, this can include registering with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) and filing reports and other paperwork.

Working with your fundraising committee early helps you meet financial goals through various activities, easing the pressure of fundraising. Setting up an online donation service early is crucial; delays in verification can stall your fundraising efforts. With these preparations, you’ll experience fewer financial headaches and be more effective in your campaign efforts.

Start preparing your campaign website content

A campaign website is a critical tool for politicians today. Developing your campaign website early will be central to your campaign, offering updates, fundraising, and volunteer recruitment. A candidate website can be used to accept contributions, post updates, and get people onto your email list.

You’ll find that having your website up and running provides a platform to share your story and vision, making it easier to connect with voters. Getting your website content and photographs ready will make things easier when it’s time to register a domain name and build your site. If you have not already started your campaign website, it is important to begin early.

You should have a site live by the time you announce your candidacy. The sooner you do, the more time you will have to raise money through the site. It will also provide a place to help organize your campaign events and recruit support. Preparing website content and photographs in advance can make your site launch smoother, saving you from last-minute content creation stress.

Keep in mind that a website can always start small and grow over time to keep people informed about your progress. You can post updates about the campaign, such as fundraising totals or goal updates. You can also use it to tell your story and share information about you, the cause, and your supporters. Regular updates keep supporters informed and engaged, which can build a stronger connection with your base and make them feel more involved in your campaign.

Start warming up your social media accounts

When was the last time you went through your personal social media profiles? Reviewing and updating your personal social media profiles ensures you project a professional image. Removing outdated or embarrassing content can prevent potential PR issues. Use this time to clean up your old posts and update your profile images to project a professional look.

Most politicians, even local ones, use social media to get their messages out to the public. By starting to post content that appeals to voters and cross-linking your profiles with your campaign website and donation pages, you’ll boost your online visibility. If you are planning to use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, you’ll want to set up your accounts and start posting content that will resonate with voters. This strategic social media use can lead to higher engagement rates, better voter connection, and more donations, enhancing your overall campaign impact.

And don’t forget to cross-link your social profiles with your campaign website and donation pages. This is important for ranking better in search engines.

Know the law and local rules of political campaigning

Getting to know your local election laws is crucial if you want to avoid any of the many legal pitfalls that go with politics. Whatever you do, become familiar with your local election laws. Understanding restrictions on campaign activities, advertising disclaimers, and filing deadlines ensures you comply with all legal requirements. For example, there might be dates before which you cannot engage in campaign activities or raise money.

This knowledge can prevent fines or penalties and keeps your campaign running smoothly. Of course, filing deadlines are a must. There may also be advertising restrictions or specific disclaimers required on your print and web material. Laws vary from state to state and may even depend on the elected position you are running for. It also builds your credibility with voters who value transparency and adherence to rules.

Have a fun and productive summer!

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