By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Texans interested in running for political office are invited to learn how to build and manage an effective campaign through Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) Campaign Seminar. The two-day seminar is designed for candidates, campaign managers, volunteers and others involved or interested in campaigns and the election process.

The event is set for Sept. 24-25 at the TFB Conference and Training Center in Waco.

The program is hosted every two years to help those interested in public office better understand and prepare for campaigns and service.

“The Campaign Seminar provides an overview of what potential candidates can expect before, during and after the campaign process,” Billy Howe, TFB associate director of Government Affairs, said. “It equips participants with Practical strategies from message development and voter outreach to budgeting, polling and managing volunteers.”

TFB encourages farmers, ranchers and agricultural professionals to consider running for office at local, county, state or congressional levels.

“Grassroots involvement always has been the heart of Farm Bureau, and we hope to inspire that same spirit of participation in Texas’ political process and for school boards and local government positions, too,” Howe said. “Our communities, state and nation become stronger as more citizens get involved in civil service.”

Howe noted several current elected officials have participated in the process and found it valuable in preparing them to step into public office for the first time.

“It’s a great way to prepare for all that a campaign involves and to learn the key areas you need to pay attention to. Candidates who have been through our seminar say it’s a real eye opener,” Howe said. “It’s a great investment if you’re thinking about running for office.”

Seminar topics include evaluating the candidate and electorate, selecting a campaign theme and issues, structuring a campaign, the role of a campaign manager, budgeting, identifying voters, polling, Election Day activities and much more.

Registration is $100 per candidate and $100 per spouse or campaign manager attending alone.

If the spouse or campaign manager is attending with the candidate, that individual’s registration is $60. One $40 member discount per candidate is available for those with a current TFB membership.

The registration fee covers candidate materials, a mock interview video, two lunches and one dinner. Lodging is not included. Hotel reservations are available by contacting Betsy Simon at 800-537-8294 or bsimon@txfb.org.

To register, complete the form found here.

Registration closes Aug. 29.

For more information, contact Howe at bhowe@txfb.org or 254-751-2208.