BECOME AN ELECTED OFFICIAL
RUNNING FOR OFFICE
Running for a political position is a big decision, but it can be incredibly rewarding if you’re passionate about making a difference in your community. Why should you consider running?
Advocate for Change – If you see issues in your community, state, or country that aren’t being addressed, stepping into office gives you the power to push for solutions rather than waiting for someone else to do it.
Represent Your Community – Many people feel their voices aren’t heard in government. Running for office allows you to be a direct representative of your neighbors, advocating for their needs and concerns.
Improve Public Services – From schools to infrastructure to public safety, holding a political position gives you a say in improving essential services that impact daily life.
Bring Fresh Perspectives – Politics often needs new ideas and diverse viewpoints. If you feel like change is needed, you can be the one to bring fresh energy and innovative solutions.
Strengthen Democracy – Engaging in the political process — whether locally, statewide, or nationally—ensures that democracy remains strong and representative of all people.
Inspire Others – By stepping up, you can encourage others — especially younger generations — to get involved in civic leadership, showing that change is possible when people take action.
OFFICES YOU CAN RUN FOR IN CHESTER COUNTY
Chester County Voter Services accepts petitions for the following: county offices, magisterial district judge, municipal offices, school boards, election offices, and local party committees.
Individuals who are interested in holding any office should first ensure they understand all qualifications and obligations of that office. Before entering any public race, individuals should contact the relevant office to gain a clearer understanding of the responsibilities that come with being an elected government official.
HOW DO I GET MY NAME ON THE BALLOT?
Every candidate who wishes to run for elected office must decide how they wish to gain access to the ballot in the November election. There are two different methods to be a Democratic candidate in November.
- Submit a nomination petition to be added to the Democratic party’s primary ballot. Any candidate who wins a primary election is added to the November ballot unless they decide to withdraw.
- Pursue a write-in campaign for either the primary election or the general election. If a write-in candidate is the highest vote-getter in the primary, that candidate will be listed as the Democratic party’s candidate on the November ballot.
More information about running for office can be found on the Chester County website.
GET HELP
LOCAL ZONES
For local positions such as municipal offices and school board directors, your local zone organizations can help with the process of gathering signatures for nominating petitions to be on the Primary Election Democratic ballot and with running for office.