Top 10 Myths About Running for State Representative

• I am not rich enough to be a state rep.

Fact: People of all economic backgrounds run and serve as state reps.

• I don’t have enough time to serve as a state rep.

Fact: Being a state rep does not mean signing your life away for two years. You will need to come to session days (usually once a week from January to early June) and committee meetings (usually 1-2 times a week from January to early June). Anything above and beyond is that generally optional. Most state reps find that their employers are flexible and recognize the importance of having you serve in the state legislature.

• I don’t have a Ph.D. in anything.

Fact: People of all education levels have run and served as state reps. And it’s on the most rewarding learning experiences you can have!

• I don’t have enough experience in local politics to run or serve my community.

Fact: If you are over 18, have lived in NH for two years, and believe you can represent your district well, you can do it. Besides, CEHD and the Democratic House members are here to help.

• I am not an expert on _________  (legislative issue).

Fact: No matter what your background, there is a committee for you. We want normal NH residents, not rocket scientists!

• Travel to and from Concord is just too expensive.

Fact: Mileage and tolls are covered. Next!

• I haven’t prepared to run and it’s already late summer. There’s not enough time to do it right.

Fact: It’s never too soon or too late to run. CEHD can help at any stage of your campaign. The best time to start planning and raising money is now.

• I like to travel in the summer. I can’t run if I’m not here to campaign.

Fact: If you lay the groundwork now, you don’t have to change your usual plans. Early fundraising and making local connections is key. As long as you are around for the fall and are dedicated to working hard when you are here, it should be okay.

• I’ve made some mistakes in my life and I don’t want to be embarrassed in the newspapers.

Fact: This is a citizen legislature and no one is perfect. Voters will forgive almost any thing and, unless it was recent and involved a serious crime, news reporters generally don’t care. Your old parking tickets aren’t news.

• I served as a state rep a decade ago and it was no fun.

Fact: That may have been true then, but not any more. We are in the majority, lead all the committees, and have passed some legislation. It’s good to be in control!  But now we need your help.