Approximately how much cash do you need to run a successful campaign for state legislature or state senate?
I've noticed that the requirements to become a state senator or representative are much less than on the national scale. I know a national campaign costs an immense amount of money and that is why those seeking office need party backing. Is there anyway to create a local state campaign with a very, very small budget? How much money is really needed?
Answers ( 2 )
In a civilized country, none. That's what's wrong with the USA, in a nutshell.
That is a very variable question.
What state? How big is your district? I.e., a Vermont Senate single-member District has about 21k people. A California Senate District has about 931k.
What towns / cities are contained in the district? Are they walkable? Do you expect a contested race? Is it normal to use TV / Radio / other media in that district? Do you have a volunteer core ready to call / door knock / write postcards for you? Or will you be hiring staff / contracting that out?
When setting a fundraising target for such a race, I would consider the following expenses:
All of those are a function of the size of the district. Some of these are more or less important depending on the size of the race. For example, in a district of 15k: you need lawn signs or you won't seem serious. Whereas, in a big city district of 200k people: if you're not on the air you won't seem serious, and the lawn signs are an afterthought.
Best bet: look at the previous campaign finance reports of your opponents and/or of a contested race nearby. That should give you an idea of what your opponents are spending.
If you're a Democrat, please reach out directly. I'm happy to put you in touch with some training groups that I've worked with who can help you specifically answer that question for your district.
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Brian Shelden
Essex (VT) Town Democratic Chair
2020 Vermont State Representative Candidate, Chitenden 8-1