Have you ever thought of running for state office

Null Pointer

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Sun May-02-04 09:59 PM
Original message

Have you ever thought of running for state office

Before I retire, in about 20 years - I'd like to know what it takes to represent my people.

Have you all ever felt this need? What does it pay (hey, a Senator's position is opening up this November), what do you do? How does one represent their constituency? (forgive my ignorance. i'm only 26)

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AndyP

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Sun May-02-04 10:04 PM
Response to Original message

1. you're gunna retire at 46?

hey that's cool. I've always thought the same thing (i'm 21). I would love to do that, I think we need more "real" people in politics. Good luck if you ever decide to do it. I would start off slow, like city council or mayor or something where you can get the feel for the process. Get your name out, volunteer n stuff. Have fun!

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Killarney

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Mon May-03-04 10:55 AM
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2. Yes, I'd like to someday

Maybe run for state rep in a few years.

Right now I'm gaining experience on town boards, etc.

As far as your question about pay, I think state rep starts at around $50K and state senator is probably a little more.

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Killarney

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Mon May-03-04 10:57 AM
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3. A good book

If you're interested in learning more about the experience of being in state congress, I recommend the book "A Woman's Ways & Means" by Barbara Gray. She was a state rep for over 20 years.

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Kat45

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Mon May-03-04 03:39 PM
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4. I've thought about it on many occasions,, but

don't know if it would be doable. Since I don't have money and I'm not well known (in any circles), I'd most likely have to spend quite a bit of time getting known in town politics. And I find town politics quite boring. There's always so much petty squabbling, you know, junior high level bullshit. Since I don't own a house or have kids, there is even less reason to be interested in the agendas at town govt meetings. If I were in a position where I could run for state rep with a reasonable chance of winning, I might do it--but that ain't happening any time soon. :shrug:

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Chuletas

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Tue May-04-04 09:27 PM
Response to Reply #4

5. I'd never run myself

But if you are interested, are you involved in your city or town democratic committee? Chances are your state rep, alderman and councilmen/women show up at least from time to time. A good place to get your feet wet and start to build the coalition you need. Even the local politicians seem to be involved in nearly nightly meetings of some kind.

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