Join our community. Free courses. Real strategies.
You CAN Run for Office- And We Want To Help.
Thinking about running for office as a Democrat? You don’t need a political background—just a passion for change. We believe that leaders come from every walk of life, and if you care about your community, you deserve the tools and support to win. Running for local office can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our free community, expert training, and campaign accelerator program will give you the roadmap to run, organize, and build a winning movement.
Free Online Courses
Our free courses teach you everything from building a campaign strategy to connecting with voters. Designed for first-time candidates, these lessons will give you the confidence to launch and win.
- Learn the art of fundraising to fuel your campaign.
- Build a campaign strategy tailored to your unique goals.
Collaborative Community
Join a network of like-minded leaders, first-time candidates, and campaign experts who are here to help you succeed. Share strategies, gain insights, and lean on a community that’s got your back every step of the way.
- Connect with democratic mentors and peers nationwide.
- Gain confidence through shared experiences and advice.
Networking Opportunities
Expand your network with opportunities to meet other changemakers, campaign strategists, and advocates. Together, we’ll help you build the support progressive system you need to lead effectively.
- Connect with like-minded leaders and organizations.
- Build lasting relationships to fuel your campaign.
Passionate Leaders Ready to Make an Impact
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for passionate changemakers with a drive to make their communities better—and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re fighting for equality, climate justice, or fair wages, our resources, training, and community will equip you with the tools to run and win.
Progressive Leaders
We support candidates who are pro-choice, pro-universal health care, pro-LGBTQ equality, and pro-criminal justice reform. We back those who fight for working families, organized labor, fair wages, and job creation. We also stand with those who prioritize voting rights, campaign finance reform, and tackling inequality.
Diverse Voices
We believe leadership is strongest when it reflects the people it serves. That’s why we work with candidates from all walks of life—teachers, healthcare workers, small business owners, artists, activists, parents, and more.
Rooted in Community
Great leaders come from the communities they serve. We’re looking for individuals who already call their district home—those who are volunteering, mentoring, organizing, or simply doing the work. We’re not asking you to move home to run; we’re here to help those who are already rooted in their community rise up and lead.
Take the First Step
You Have What It Takes. Let’s Build Your Campaign Together.
Running for office is no small task, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to guide you with free resources, expert training, and a network of support to help you every step of the way.
FAQs
Running For Office FAQ's
Get answers to your questions about direct mail for political campaigns and how Sutton & Smart can help you craft effective, voter-focused mailers that deliver results.
How do I run for office with no money?
Running a campaign on a tight budget is possible with grassroots organizing, social media, and community support. Focus on volunteer-driven outreach, digital marketing, and free press coverage instead of costly ads. Crowdfunding and small-dollar donations can also help finance your campaign.
A clear fundraising strategy is key. Leverage online donation platforms, local fundraising events, and outreach to small donors to build financial momentum.
Join our community to learn how to get started with fundraising and running a cost-effective campaign.
How do I run for office with no experience?
Many successful politicians start with no political experience. The key is to understand local issues, connect with your community, and build a strong campaign team. Start small by volunteering, attending local government meetings, or running for school board or city council before pursuing higher office.
If you don’t have experience, mentorship and training can help.
Join our community to access expert guidance and take the first steps toward launching your campaign.
How old do you have to be to run for office?
Age requirements vary by position and location. Here are the minimum age requirements for some major offices:
- President – At least 35 years old
- U.S. Senator – At least 30 years old
- U.S. Representative – At least 25 years old
- Governor and State Officials – Typically 25-30 years old (varies by state)
- Local Office (Mayor, City Council, etc.) – Often 18-25 years old depending on the jurisdiction
If you're unsure about the age requirements for your state or local office, join our community for resources on state-by-state qualifications.
How do I get my name on the ballot?
o appear on the ballot, candidates must file official paperwork, meet residency and age requirements, and collect a required number of voter signatures. The number of signatures and deadlines vary depending on the position and location.
Some candidates also pay a filing fee instead of collecting signatures. Missing a deadline or failing to meet requirements can disqualify you from the election. Join our community to learn the exact process for your state and get step-by-step guidance on getting on the ballot.
Can I keep my job while running for office?
In most cases, yes, but it depends on your job and the office you're running for. Many candidates keep working while campaigning, but some government employees and military personnel face restrictions. Certain states and local governments also have laws preventing elected officials from holding certain jobs while in office.
Balancing work and campaigning is tough, but with time management and delegation, it’s possible. Join our community for insights from candidates who have successfully managed their careers while running for office.
How do I run for office as a Democrat?
Running for office as a Democrat means aligning with the party’s values while building a campaign that resonates with voters. The first step is connecting with your local Democratic Party to gain access to resources, training, and potential endorsements. Many state and county Democratic organizations provide candidate training programs, volunteer networks, and fundraising support.
To officially run as a Democratic candidate, you must file as a Democrat when you submit your paperwork to run for office. Depending on the position, you may also need to win the Democratic primary election before advancing to the general election. Successful Democratic campaigns often focus on grassroots organizing, digital outreach, and mobilizing key voter groups.
Building relationships with local activists, unions, and Democratic clubs can also strengthen your campaign. Join our community to learn how to navigate the Democratic primary process, connect with party leaders, and run a winning campaign as a Democrat.
Any Questions?
