Mike Biundo: Down-ballot Campaigns
If you are running, or thinking about running, for a down-ballot race or maybe even know someone who is, I have some insight for you.
The year is 2004, and after more than a decade of involvement in politics as a staffer and consultant, I find myself standing on the NH House floor being sworn in as the next state representative from my ward in Manchester. I had worked on several presidential and congressional races by that point in my career, yet this moment had the most profound impact on me. I was overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation and my responsibility to the voters who elected me. I wasn’t expecting that emotion, to be honest. Just months prior, I had to be begged to run. I was running two businesses, only six years into my marriage, and didn’t have nearly enough time for a $100-a-year job as a state representative. (Yes, for all those not from NH, that’s all that state representatives and senators make here. All 424 of them. We also had no staff, but I digress.)
That impactful moment born from arm twisting to get me to run was manifested by the hard work and strategies I had applied to win. I know first-hand what a commitment it is to put your name on the ballot and the sacrifice it takes to commit that much time. I also know that whether you’re running for the first time or running for re-election, losing is not a good option. (In fact, it sucks.)
Our company is known for running races for the White House, but we thrive and very much enjoy helping those running for down-ballot races as well. With that in mind, let me offer you some important (and free) advice while I have your attention drawn away from making fundraising calls or knocking on doors:
- Get a good headshot and lots of pictures of you meeting voters, with your family, and at work. You can’t do compelling mail, digital, and advertisements without pictures.
- Put everyone you know on a piece of paper, then call them asking for money and support.
- Get a good list of voters in your district. (You would be surprised by how many people don’t make this a priority.)
- Only use advertising (mail, phone/text, digital) that targets the voters on the above-mentioned list.
- Treat all advertising as a sales relationship, tracking each person and following up through Election Day.
Having walked in your shoes as a state representative in 2004, I understand the dedication, hard work, and passion required to navigate the challenges of a down-ballot race. With Ascent Strategic, you’ll gain a partner who not only brings professional expertise but also a unique perspective shaped by personal experience.
Let’s schedule a consultation to discuss your campaign’s specific needs and explore how we can work together to secure a victory for your candidacy. Please email us at info@ascent-strategic.com to arrange a convenient time.
My team and I look forward to contributing to your campaign’s success.
We are excited to announce that we are finalists for ten Campaign & Elections Reed Awards! We’re finalists for our work across the field, from City Council to President, encompassing everything from graphic design, digital, GOTV, newspaper, and phones.
Finalist Categories:
– Bootstrapped Campaigns: Best Direct Mail Piece for Bootstrapped Campaign
– Brand & Merch: Best Rapid Response Piece of Campaign Merchandise
– Digital – Advertising & Targeting: Best Campaign Meme
– Direct Mail: Best Mail Piece for Independent Expenditure Campaign – Statewide
– Direct Mail: Best Mail That Never Saw The Light of Day
– Direct Mail: Best Mail Piece for County, Local or Judicial Campaign (Republican)
– Direct Mail: Best Mail Piece for Mayoral Campaign
– GOTV & Field: Best Lit Piece
– Newspaper: Best Newspaper Ad for Political Campaign
– Phone Calls: Best Automated Phone Call
