Theoretically, any citizen who is at least 35 can run for U.S. President, but realistically the pool of candidates is narrow. It would include Governors, U.S. Senators, well-known generals, perhaps a House member or a famous business leader. The recruitment pool for gubernatorial candidates is much wider--mayors, state attorney generals, business leaders, media personalities, and members of Congress would all have a chance.
By the time you get down to borough council or township board of supervisors, the recruitment pool is amazingly wide. Almost anyone who is somewhat known in the community--volunteer firefighter, planning commission member, church leader, business owner, 4-H local leader--can make a credible run for a borough council seat.
The main problem seems to be that few people want the hassle that comes with actually winning a seat. Staff members at the Democratic Information Center have been calling local officials in Carbon County to ascertain whether or not they plan to run for reelection. We are attempting to find candidates to run for the vacant seats, but it is difficult to find anyone willing to make the commitment.
Here’s my plea. Run for office. You’ll get paid a pittance and you will take abuse, but you will be performing the highest duty a citizen can perform. You can start circulating nominating petitions on February 19.
I know how are it is to find people to run for these lower municipal offices. There is a ton that goes into running. You need signs, you have to go door to door, you may want flyers. It could cost you $200 to run for one of these offices.
ReplyDeleteBut, I agree. It allows a regular person to make a difference. And, in life, making a difference is one of the most important things you can do.