Every year as a political consultant, I run into at least one candidate who has never before run for office or been involved with someone else’s campaign. I have to remind myself that things I take for granted, like the first steps in starting a campaign – are all new for these candidates and part of my job is to guide them through the process to ensure that their name will be on the ballot and they’re in compliance with the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Act, which many still refer to as the Ethics in Government Act.
Let me begin by saying what this lesson is not. This is not intended for candidates seeking federal office, Congress or the United States Senate. We’re talking specifically to candidates who are running for state, county, or municipal office in the State of Georgia.
Most states will have similar requirements, but please do not rely on this information for your campaign elsewhere. This is not intended to replace the advice of your lawyer or political consultant if you have one.
Finally, this is not how to win a campaign – our focus today is getting started with the first three steps to make sure your campaign is structured correctly and you can get on the ballot.
Three Steps to Your First Campaign
3. Qualify for office with the Secretary of State’s Office or with your local qualifying officer.