The League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County wants to help would-be candidates get ready for the 2020 election — and for the one after that.
Despite its name, the league’s Campaign School 2020 is intended for anyone considering a run for public office in Pennsylvania, whether it’s for a state House or Senate seat this year or a county, municipal or school board position in 2021.
The seminar is scheduled Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the University of Scranton’s Brennan Hall, 316 Madison Ave. The snow date is Feb. 1.
The league recognized after its 2019 campaign seminar — which was held in January and geared toward candidates for county and municipal offices last year — that many of those in attendance had already decided months earlier that they were going to run for office, board member Diana Dakey said.
“We realized people were making those decisions over a year ahead of time,” she said.
As a result, the organization decided to do a seminar that would be helpful not only to those planning to run for office or organize a campaign this year but also those planning ahead, Dakey said.
Topics covered will include the practicalities of completing a petition, organizing a campaign, getting your message across, raising money and using various forms of media. The program will wrap up with a panel to share lessons learned from political life.
The league anticipates the attendees will include both individuals who have committed to seeking office and others who are curious and may pursue a candidacy in the future, Dakey said.
“We think it’s healthy for democracy for more people to run for office, and giving people an idea of what is involved in running for office encourages more people to consider that option,” she said.
Lackawanna County Director of Elections Marion Medalis, who has participated in past league seminars, said candidates find them valuable.
“You pick up a lot of information from it,” she said.
The cost of the seminar — $40 for the general public, $25 for league members or $15 for students — includes a continental breakfast and informational materials.
For information or to register, visit www.lwvlackawanna.org.
This year’s primary election in Pennsylvania is April 28. Candidates may circulate and file nomination petitions beginning Jan. 28.
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