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“Exploring Your Run” 2026 Edition Is Here
The 2026 edition of Exploring Your Run for Municipal Office is live! Fully updated with new resources, a chapter on protecting your peace, bonus audio, and worksheets to help you explore your run with confidence.
Explore Your Run
It’s time to figure out whether or not you’re ready to run for office.
It’s time to figure out whether you’re ready to run for office — and the 2026 edition of Exploring Your Run for Municipal Office is finally here.
This fully updated workbook is designed for anyone who’s ever thought: “Could I run municipally — and what would it actually take?” It’s a step-by-step guide to exploring the decision to run, helping you get clarity, build confidence, and plan ahead without pressure.
Everything you need to explore your run, make confident decisions, and prepare for a successful campaign — all in one digital workbook.
Running for municipal office is exciting, meaningful, and yes — a little intimidating. That’s why I created this workbook: to help you explore the possibility, ask the right questions, and get organized before making any big commitments.
The 2026 edition is fully updated, with clearer guidance, new resources, and a brand-new chapter on protecting your peace — because running for office is serious work, and you deserve to feel good doing it.
What’s Inside:
Updated Guidance: Refreshed examples, links, and resources relevant to 2026.
New Chapter: Protecting your peace, including a worksheet to help you set healthy boundaries.
Bonus Audio: A reworked workshop in audio format, perfect for listening on the go.
Clear Explanations: Simplified, step-by-step guidance to take the guesswork out of early campaign decisions.
Practical Worksheets: Define your mission, map your community, and build your campaign team.
Why This Workbook Works:
Helps you make a confident decision to run
Breaks down complex campaign steps into simple, actionable exercises
Created by Amanda Kingsley Malo — educator, campaign veteran, and your personal guide through local politics
Format:
30+-page PDF
Instant download
Works on computer, tablet, or phone
What’s new in 2026:
The workbook is 33 pages of practical guidance designed to make exploring your run feel achievable and structured, not overwhelming.
What you will get in this resource:
Updated links and resources relevant for the 2026 municipal cycle
Improved explanations and tighter language
A brand-new chapter on protecting your peace, with a worksheet to help set boundaries
A bonus audio resource: a reworked workshop you can listen to anywhere
Expanded worksheets to help you define your mission, research your community, and map your campaign team
“I tell everyone who says they want to run that they need this workbook.” - a real politician
If you’ve already purchased the 2022 edition, you’ll get the full 2026 update for free — just shoot us an email for your special code.
This workbook is for you if you’ve ever dreamed of running for office but:
didn’t know where to start.
weren’t sure if you were ready.
felt like you needed to do some introspective to make sure that this is the next step.
This workbook was created by our founder, Amanda Kingsley Malo, drawing on over a decade of experience running campaigns and supporting candidates. It’s the resource she wishes she’d had when she first considered running and now it’s available to anyone thinking about taking the next step.
We want you to be ready to run and win.
Your Campaign Success Roadmap Freebie
Running for office? Download our free Campaign Success Roadmap to learn the 12 essential steps you need to take to win your election.
Ready to Run? Follow These 12 Actionable Steps to a Winning Campaign
Running for office is an exciting and challenging journey—but success doesn’t happen by accident.
To win, you need a clear strategy, a strong message, and a well-organized campaign. That’s why we created Your Campaign Success Roadmap—a step-by-step list that will help you navigate your campaign with confidence.
This free PDF resource outlines 12 essential steps every candidate must take to build a winning campaign. Whether you’re running for municipal council, school board trustee, or any other elected position, this guide will set you on the right path.
This product is for you if …
First-time candidates who need a clear roadmap for success.
Campaign teams looking to streamline their strategy.
Community leaders preparing for future elections.
Anyone who wants to run an organized and effective campaign.
If you like this resource, don’t forget to check out our others:
Campaigning in the Digital Age
Master the digital landscape of municipal elections! From crafting an authentic online persona to leveraging social media, DIY graphic design, and the power of email, this guide unveils a tactical arsenal for success. Success in the digital age is within reach—navigate the online battlefield and propel your campaign forward with strategic planning and authenticity.
Navigating the Online Landscape for Election Triumph
Welcome to the digital battleground of municipal elections, where the endless symphony of online noise can either drown you out or catapult your campaign to victory. In this whirlwind of pixels and hashtags, we get it – budgets are tight, resources are scarce, and the thought of navigating the vast digital realm can feel like trying to find a needle in a virtual haystack.
We're here as your digital compass, unveiling not just tools but a tactical arsenal of tips and tricks to turn your digital campaign into a resounding triumph.
craft your digital persona
Your online presence is the canvas of your campaign. Paint it with authenticity, passion, and dedication. Let voters see the person behind the politician. Share your journey in a way that resonates, cultivating a digital persona that's not just about politics but reflects your values, making you relatable to constituents.
leverage social media
Social media is your trusty sidekick, even on a shoestring budget. Choose platforms wisely, ones that resonate with your audience. Engage your community with realness – not just with polished posts but through behind-the-scenes glimpses and genuine interactions. Remember, it's not about the number of followers but the quality of connections you build.
dIY Graphic Design
Graphics are pivotal in the digital battleground. Don't fret about lacking a design degree; embrace accessible tools like Canva or Adobe Spark. Thanks to templates and user-friendly interfaces, even if your design skills currently lean more towards stick figures than Picasso, you can effortlessly create visuals that powerfully amplify your campaign's message. Moreover, it aids in maintaining a consistent brand tone, ensuring your message remains recognizable to all your followers—and the broader community!
master the email game
In the realm of digital campaign strategies, emails remain an unsung hero, quietly but powerfully delivering your message directly to your constituents' inboxes. Think of your email list as a treasure chest, one you're not just filling but curating strategically. While social media helps you connect, the email list is the lifeline you get to keep, even if the social media landscape changes overnight.
Consider this: if the social media platforms we rely on today vanished tomorrow, how would you maintain a direct line to your constituents? Here's where your email list steps in as a crucial asset. Unlike social media, where algorithms and trends can shift unpredictably, your email list provides stability and ownership. It's a direct communication channel that remains under your control, offering a dependable means to reach your audience, no matter the digital tides. So, as you build your email list, you're not just accumulating contacts; you're fostering a resilient community and securing your ability to connect authentically, even in the face of digital uncertainties.
host virtual town halls
With limited capacity for in-person events, take your campaign to the digital town hall. Platforms like Zoom or Facebook Live allow you to engage with voters, address concerns, and present your platform. Schedule these events strategically, providing an accessible and intimate forum for interaction.
use community-centric blogging
Blogging isn't just for the tech-savvy. Establish a simple blog on your campaign website, sharing insights, updates, and your vision for the community. It's a powerful yet cost-effective way to position yourself as a thought leader and keep constituents informed.
use tools for campaign analytics
Even with limited resources, harness the power of data. Utilize free or affordable analytics tools to track the performance of your online efforts. Understand what resonates with your audience, refine your strategy accordingly, and make informed decisions to optimize your digital campaign.
ensure you have a flexible digital strategy
Flexibility is key in the digital age. Regularly assess your digital strategy's performance, adapt to emerging trends, and refine your approach based on what resonates with your audience. Embrace a dynamic online presence that evolves with the changing landscape of digital politics.
Digital Triumph on a Limited Budget
In the digital age, success is not reserved for those with hefty budgets. With strategic planning, authenticity, and a willingness to adapt, you can maximize online platforms to propel your campaign forward. Your limited funds and capacity need not be limitations – consider them opportunities to craft a digital campaign that's not just impactful but also uniquely yours.
Onward, towards a victorious digital campaign!
TL;DR
From crafting an authentic online persona to leveraging social media, DIY graphic design, mastering the power of email, and hosting virtual town halls, this blog unravels a tactical arsenal for success. Embrace community-centric blogging, use data-driven campaign analytics, and ensure a flexible digital strategy. Success in the digital age is within reach, even with limited resources—navigate the online battlefield and propel your campaign forward with strategic planning and authenticity.— More Resources —
Unlock Your Political Potential
Empower your political journey with our curated resources designed to elevate women in municipal politics.
Guide to Building Strong Relationships with Reporters
Navigate municipal politics with finesse by strategically building relationships with the media. Your story, authenticity, and timely communication are key to impactful connections.
Navigating the Media Maze
As you embark on the exciting and challenging journey into the realm of municipal politics, it becomes increasingly crucial for you to understand the importance of forming strong and mutually beneficial alliances with the media. These alliances serve as a strategic playbook, guiding you through the intricate dance of information dissemination, ensuring that your message reaches the intended audience effectively. By building relationships with journalists, engaging in open and transparent communication, and providing them with timely and relevant insights, you can cultivate a positive and influential presence in the media landscape, amplifying your voice and enhancing your chances of success in the political arena.
So, let's dive into the art of building relationships with reporters.
1.Know Your Media Landscape
In the realm of politics, knowledge is power. Take the time to dissect the local media scene. Understand the journalists who cover political matters, their reporting styles, and the outlets they represent. Armed with this knowledge, you can tailor your engagements effectively, ensuring your message aligns seamlessly with their journalistic values.
2. always have a purpose
Your presence is your power. Attend local events, press conferences, and networking functions purposefully. Forge connections by introducing yourself and engaging in meaningful conversations. Be a discerning presence, allowing reporters to recognize the substance behind the politician. Establishing a prominent and purposeful presence will position you as a valuable source for insightful commentary.
3. Craft a Compelling Narrative
Every politician has a story, and yours is an invaluable asset. Share your journey, motivations, challenges, and triumphs in a way that captivates and resonates. Journalists are storytellers; empower them with the material to weave a compelling narrative around your political journey. In doing so, you shape the public discourse and solidify your presence in the media landscape.
4. establish a foundation of trust
Authenticity is a currency that holds immense value in politics. Be yourself. Reporters are astute and can discern sincerity from pretense. Let your genuine passion for public service shine through, fostering a relationship built on trust. Authenticity not only earns respect but also solidifies your standing as a politician driven by a commitment to your constituents.
5. keep them informed
Communication is the lifeblood of effective relationships. Keep reporters abreast of your activities, achievements, and upcoming events. Distribute regular updates and press releases, facilitating accurate and comprehensive coverage of your endeavors. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to transparency and ensures journalists have the information needed to report accurately.
6.timely engagement is key
In the fast-paced world of journalism, responsiveness is a virtue. Promptly address inquiries, even with a brief acknowledgment, showcasing respect for the journalists' time. Your timely responsiveness communicates a dedication to open communication and elevates your professional standing.
7. navigate critique with grace
Criticism is an inevitable facet of politics. When faced with criticism, respond with resilience and grace. Address concerns thoughtfully, using the opportunity to clarify your position and demonstrate a capacity for constructive dialogue. Handling critique with poise not only garners respect but reinforces your ability to navigate the challenges of political discourse.
8. offer exclusive opportunities
Elevate your relationship with reporters by providing exclusive access. Offer interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, or early access to significant announcements. By making journalists feel like strategic partners, you position yourself for favorable coverage and cultivate a sense of mutual collaboration.
9. build connection beyond politics
Reporters are individuals with diverse interests beyond the political spectrum. Seek common ground outside the realm of politics. Whether it's shared hobbies, a mutual appreciation for local culture, or a collective commitment to community development, building personal connections enriches your professional relationships.
As you navigate the intricate media landscape, do so with strategic intent.
Your intelligence, ambition, and capability are your greatest assets. Harness them to forge meaningful connections that amplify your message and impact.
TL;DR
In the intricate realm of municipal politics, building robust relationships with the media is crucial for success. Key steps include understanding the media landscape, purposeful engagement at events, crafting compelling narratives, and fostering authenticity. Timely communication, graceful handling of critique, and offering exclusive opportunities elevate relationships with reporters. Beyond politics, building personal connections and navigating the media landscape with strategic intent solidify a politician's standing. Ultimately, this guide empowers women to leverage their strengths, shape narratives, and make a lasting impact in the world of municipal politics.— More Resources —
Unlock Your Political Potential
Empower your political journey with our curated collection of resources designed to elevate women in municipal politics.
Building a Strong Campaign Team
A strong team is essential for a successful municipal election campaign. Each member plays a crucial role, from advocates to strategic thinkers and communicators. Assemble a winning team to support, guide, and empower you on your journey to victory.
Uniting Forces for Campaign Success
Elections are vital for the functioning of any democratic society, and municipal elections are no exception. As candidates gear up for these crucial contests, one thing becomes abundantly clear: a strong campaign team is the backbone of a successful campaign. The assembled team supports, guides, and propels the candidate toward victory. This blog post will delve into the significance of building a strong campaign team for municipal elections and explore the key elements that contribute to success.
Why is a Strong Campaign Team Essential?
Running a political campaign at the municipal level is challenging. A single person cannot accomplish all the necessary work alone. A strong campaign team brings together diverse skills, experience, and perspectives that complement each other. Here are a few reasons why a strong campaign team is essential:
Dividing responsibilities within a campaign team allows for more manageable workloads. Team members can focus on their areas of expertise, such as fundraising, canvassing, communications, and strategy, ensuring the campaign runs efficiently.
A successful campaign team comprises diverse backgrounds, knowledge, and experience. Their collective expertise provides valuable insights, strategic thinking, and innovative ideas that improve the overall campaign strategy.
A good campaign team is crucial for a candidate's mental and emotional well-being during the demanding election process.
Campaign teams are crucial in expanding a candidate's reach and engaging with influential stakeholders through their networks. They also help cultivate strong community partnerships.
A strong campaign team is essential to the success of a campaign. They should coordinate activities efficiently, manage finances, and schedule events.
Key People on a Strong Campaign Team
When it comes to building a successful team, it's crucial to have members who are skilled and knowledgeable, passionate advocates for the cause, and dedicated to the candidate. These individuals bring enthusiasm and commitment to the table that can make all the difference in achieving goals and driving results. With their unwavering dedication and genuine passion for the cause, effective team members are essential to the success of any project or initiative.
Here are some people that every campaign could use on their squad:
Passionate Advocates
A strong campaign team comprises passionate advocates for the cause and the candidate. They genuinely believe in the vision and values of the campaign and are dedicated to making a positive impact in their community. Their passion is contagious and motivates others to join and support the campaign.
Strategic Thinkers
Effective campaign teams include strategic thinkers who can analyze complex situations, identify opportunities, and develop innovative strategies. They possess critical thinking skills and can navigate the challenges of a campaign with creativity and foresight. These individuals bring fresh perspectives and contribute to the overall campaign strategy.
Excellent Communicators
Strong communication skills are essential for team members interacting with the public, stakeholders, and the media. They can articulate the campaign's message clearly and effectively, engage with diverse audiences, and build meaningful connections. Their ability to listen, empathize, and communicate builds trust and credibility for the campaign.
Community Connectors
Building relationships and connecting with the community is vital for a successful campaign. Team members with deep roots and strong connections within the community can engage voters, mobilize support, and cultivate partnerships. Their knowledge of local issues and community dynamics allows them to tailor campaign efforts effectively.
Organized Managers
Campaigns require meticulous planning, organization, and coordination. Having team members with strong organizational skills ensures that tasks are executed efficiently, timelines are met, and resources are effectively managed. They keep the campaign running smoothly, allowing the candidate to focus on their responsibilities.
Resilient Problem-Solvers
Campaigns often face unexpected challenges and setbacks. Resilient team members can adapt to changing circumstances, think on their feet, and find creative solutions to overcome obstacles. Their positive attitude, perseverance, and problem-solving abilities keep the campaign resilient and focused on the ultimate goal.
Empowering Mentors
A strong campaign team includes experienced individuals who can serve as mentors and guides for newer members. They share their knowledge, provide support, and help develop the skills of others. These mentors foster a collaborative and nurturing environment that encourages personal and professional growth within the team.
Energizing Collaborators
Collaboration is key to a successful campaign. Team members who excel at collaboration can work effectively with others, foster teamwork, and leverage each other's strengths. They value diverse perspectives and actively seek input from team members, ensuring that decisions are well-informed and inclusive.
TL;DR
A robust campaign team is pivotal for success in municipal elections. The team's diversity and expertise lead to efficient workload distribution, strategic brilliance, and emotional support for the candidate. Passionate advocates, strategic thinkers, adept communicators, community connectors, organized managers, resilient problem-solvers, empowering mentors, and energizing collaborators form a dynamic team, enhancing engagement and outreach. Their collective dedication propels the campaign forward, fostering community partnerships and ensuring a streamlined, impactful electoral journey.— continue on your learning journey —
Build a strong campaign team with united, passionate, and capable members who contribute unique talents and perspectives to make a positive difference in your community. Together, create a campaign that resonates with voters, inspires change, and leaves a lasting impact.
Building a Strong Network of Supporters: A Guide for Women in Small Towns
In small towns, it is important to ensure that women's voices and experiences are heard in local municipal councils. By building a strong network of supporters who share our vision, we can drive our DIY campaigns towards success. Let's explore practical strategies to cultivate a robust support system, empowering us to make a positive difference in our communities.
As women in small towns, we have unique perspectives and experiences that deserve representation in our local municipal councils. To achieve this, we must build a strong network of supporters who believe in our vision. Let's discuss practical strategies to help you cultivate a robust support system that can drive your DIY campaign towards success.
Define Your Vision
Before reaching out to potential supporters, defining your vision and clearly articulating your goals is essential. What issues are you passionate about? How do you envision making a positive impact in your community? By crafting a compelling and concise message, you will attract like-minded individuals who resonate with your vision and are eager to support your campaign.
Engage with Your Community
In small towns, actively engaging with your community is key to establishing meaningful connections and demonstrating dedication to the well-being of your town. Attend local events, join community groups, and volunteer for causes that matter to your neighbours. Building trust and credibility will enable you to forge lasting relationships with potential supporters who share your passion for creating positive change.
Leverage the Power of Social Media
In the digital age, social media is a powerful tool to connect with people. Create an online presence that reflects your campaign's values and goals. Share updates, news, and stories that resonate with your audience. Engage with community members, respond to their comments, and listen to their concerns. Social media platforms allow you to reach a wider audience and foster connections with potential supporters who may not be physically present in your town.
Host Local Meetups and Events
Host local events to connect with community members and share your campaign message. These gatherings can take many forms, such as town hall meetings, coffee chats, or online webinars. Encourage open dialogue, listen to feedback, and discuss potential solutions. By hosting these events, you can deepen relationships with supporters and attract new individuals eager to join your cause.
Develop a Volunteer Program
Expanding your network of supporters is achievable by establishing a volunteer program. Create roles according to volunteers' interests and skills, providing training and support to build teamwork. Engage volunteers to create advocates who will spread the word about your campaign.
TL;DR
Women in small towns deserve representation in local municipal councils. To achieve this, we must cultivate a strong network of supporters who believe in our vision. Start by defining your goals and crafting a compelling message. Engage with the community through events and volunteering, and leverage social media to connect with a wider audience. Host local meetups and develop a volunteer program to deepen relationships and attract advocates. Building a robust support system is key to empowering women to make positive changes in our small towns.— continue your learning journey —
Creating a strong support network is crucial for a successful campaign. Define your vision, engage with the community, leverage social media, host local events, and develop a volunteer program to build a foundation of dedicated individuals who will stand by your side. Together, we can empower more women to take leadership roles in our municipal councils and make a positive difference in our small towns.