With the LP Presidential ticket of Oliver and Ter Maat not being on the ballot in New York, LPNY is preparing for a new write-in campaign in the 2024 election. Here’s an excerpt from GoodParty.org on the basics and pros of running a candidate for office on this basis:
How to Run for Office as a Write-In Candidate
…To be viewed as a viable candidate and not just a protest run, you’ll need a focused strategy that’s centered around visibility and voter education.
Here’s how to embark on this journey:
- Understand Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with local election laws, including any necessary paperwork and deadlines for declaring your write-in candidacy. That information is usually available from the Secretary of State website or election office for your state.
- Campaign Strategy: Develop a robust campaign plan that emphasizes direct voter engagement, social media presence, and community involvement. Highlight your platform clearly and concisely, making the case for why voters should take the extra step to write in your name.
- Voter Education: Educate your potential voters on how to correctly write in your name on the ballot. This could include instructional materials, videos, and practice ballots.
- Grassroots Mobilization: Leverage a grassroots campaign to build momentum. Engage volunteers who are passionate about your cause to spread the word and provide instructions for the write-in process.
Likelihood of Getting Elected as a Write-in Candidate
The odds of winning an election as a write-in candidate are undeniably steep, largely due to lower visibility and the additional effort required from voters. Such campaigns are more successful in down-ballot races for state, regional, and local offices than for federal offices.
However, victories, while rare, are not unheard of, and success stories often share common strategies. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska won her seat in 2010 via a write-in campaign after she failed to place in the state’s primaries. The state also uses a ranked choice voting system (RCV) for general elections.
The basics of a solid ground game include:
- Clear, Compelling Messaging: Successful write-in candidates usually have a strong, resonant message that clearly distinguishes them from the ballot-listed options.
- Effective Use of Social Media: Social media platforms can level the playing field by providing a way to reach large audiences with minimal expense.
- Community Engagement: Direct community involvement and the ability to mobilize local support networks can significantly impact a write-in campaign’s visibility and viability.
Pros and Cons of Running as a Write-In Candidate
Running for office as a write-in candidate offers a unique pathway to elected office, albeit one that requires meticulous planning, determination, and an innovative approach to communication and outreach. Whether or not a write-in campaign ends in a successful election, it can make a real impact on the political landscape.
As with any path to victory, there are advantages and drawbacks to running as a write-in candidate.
Pros of Running a Write-in Campaign
- Flexibility: Write-in campaigns can be launched closer to the election date, offering an alternative when ballot access deadlines have passed.
- Voter Empowerment: These campaigns can energize voters by providing an alternative that feels more personal and grassroots-oriented.
- Symbolic Stand: Even if victory is not likely, running as a write-in can make a significant statement and bring attention to specific issues… Read More