On the Campaign Trail

Post #9

Because most folks will never experience the life of a political candidate (too sane, I guess!), I thought I'd share some of what life on the campaign trail is like for me.

Not everyone loves being a candidate.  For many elected officials, the need to meet new people or ask for money-- while having very little private time with friends and family-- are the wearying but necessary political chores they must complete successfully before they can legislate.

For me, being a candidate is an adventure.  I learn about issues, various geographic and ethnic communities, and get to know new and interesting people every day.  I am inspired by their stories and the issues that concern them.  I am motivated by the potential to make a difference-- in one person's life, an entire neighborhood, a whole city, or statewide!

People often wonder how I can feel comfortable raising money.  When I was first elected to the House of Delegates in 1994, I had to get past the barrier of worrying that it was presumptuous or an imposition to ask for contributions.  It finally became clear to me that people wanted to invest in good government when they supported my campaign.  Donations of any size helped elect someone they thought would be hard-working, creative, and progressive-minded on issues they cared about most.

[I suppose this is the place I should offer you the 'opportunity' to support my campaign!  You can either mail a donation or make a secure gift online by going to www.CherylKagan.org and clicking on "Contribute."  Thanks!]

So next time you see me knocking on doors, working a crowd at a neighborhood event, or meeting with another community leader, don't feel sorry for me and my busy schedule.  I'm learning... and I'm enjoying it immensely! 

I would love to hear from you, dear Blog reader!  Have you ever been involved in a political campaign?  Did the experience leave you inspired, frustrated, or something else?  What's your motivation when you donate to a candidate?  Please send an email to Blog@CherylKagan.org or click on the "Comments" link below to express your views.  Please be sure to indicate which post (#9) you're addressing.

Thanks for reading.  I will post again soon.