How to Campaign for a Congressman

No campaign runs well without campaign workers. Congressional campaigns often rely more on volunteers, as the districts are often larger than state or local elections. Campaign workers have a front seat for the election, and many times get to know the candidate and staff. This relationship comes in handy if there are issues to be discussed later. Follow these steps to campaign for a congressman.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Volunteer at the campaign headquarters. The campaign staff will ask about time availability, interests and skills, such as computer or design skills. There are numerous simple clerical tasks involved in a campaign. Be willing to stuff envelopes or answer phones. These jobs are vital to a campaign.
2. Host a meet-the-candidate party. Small parties are a great way for the candidate to meet voters. Check with campaign staff about date and time, as an incumbent congressman is often in Washington, D.C. Invite friends and family and keep it simple. The candidate is the main focus.
3. Talk to friends and neighbors about the candidate. Word-of-mouth is the best publicity in the world.
4. Use bumper stickers and yard signs. These campaign advertisements are vital for name identification. Make sure the car is clean and the yard neat.
5. Consider attending a campaign school. Many political organizations and special interest groups sponsor seminars and workshops to improve campaign worker skills. Contact the political party of choice or special interest group to see what schools are being offered.
6. Offer to campaign at the polls. Whether it is for early voting or for election day, a candidate's campaign presence at the polling place is very important. Many volunteers are needed to pass out leaflets, talk to voters and answer questions.
7. Vote. All the hours of campaigning come down to one election total. The best way to campaign for a congressman is to cast a ballot.

Tips & Warnings

• Be dependable. Show up on time and work hard. Good volunteers are greatly valued and many times get the best tasks.
• Always obey local, state and federal election laws. Violations of these laws reflect poorly on the candidate. Check with the campaign office, local election official or political party about rules and laws governing elections.