The Importance of Local Elections

Every four years, there’s a frenzy during the presidential elections. People invest millions and countless hours into the process, pouring in their emotions. Then, almost as soon as it’s over, things go silent. We, as a nation, tend to reserve our enthusiasm until the next presidential cycle rolls around.

This pattern doesn’t make much sense. It’s common, sure, but it’s also a big reason why we seem to lose ground, even when we appear to win significant races.

But there’s hope—a straightforward answer exists.

While it requires effort, this approach can shift the focus back to America First policies and place them at the center of legislative discussions.

Honestly, I’m not going to pretend I’m some political mastermind who invented this approach. Much of what I share is drawn from observing the Democrats, who’ve perfected this strategy over decades. Of course, I’ve also developed some techniques from my work with Citizens Alliance.

You don’t need to be a genius to identify these patterns, especially after having knocked on over nine million doors and contributed to more than 400 elections across the country.

I detail these insights in my book, Run Right. If there’s one thing I wish every concerned citizen would grasp, it’s this: local races hold far more significance than national elections.

Not just a bit more—significantly more!

The Left’s Year-Round Commitment

Here’s something the left understood long ago: they don’t wait for the presidential election cycle to mobilize. They build their movement every single day, especially during those quieter moments when people aren’t as engaged.

While we debate on social media about presidential primaries, the left is busy recruiting candidates for local positions—school boards, city councils, and county offices. They’re training organizers, compiling lists, and attending those mundane local meetings that many of us tend to skip.

They’re working tirelessly to secure control of offices at every level of government in communities across the country.

Consider the implications. School boards and city councils are responsible for determining educational content and local budget allocations. County offices oversee law enforcement funding and various regulations. State legislatures influence election laws, map districts, and levy taxes. While Congress is at the top of this hierarchy, it operates in the shadow of local governance.

By only engaging during major elections, we find ourselves constantly on the defensive elsewhere. Moreover, without local power, Republicans in Congress and the presidency have less influence than many realize.

Local Government Affects Daily Life

Let’s be honest—many people won’t ever engage with their senator or get a response from a congressional representative. However, your city council member might live just around the corner, and your school board member could be shopping in the same store as you.

This proximity makes local governance unique. It’s accessible and accountable.

If a city council makes a poor zoning decision or a school board adopts an unpopular curriculum, residents show up and voice their concerns. Imagine trying to do the same with a senator in Washington.

Local officials don’t have the luxury of hiding behind bureaucratic layers. They answer to their constituents directly because you might be sitting right there at the meeting. That level of accountability is rare in politics now, and it’s something patriots should leverage.

The Accessibility of Local Races

Here’s a truth often glossed over for aspiring candidates: national elections require vast sums of money and years of building recognition.

Most ordinary individuals won’t pursue a congressional bid, and that’s perfectly okay. But running for a city council, school board, county commission, or state house? Those positions are attainable for those with determination and a clear vision.

Smaller districts mean fewer voters to connect with, so you don’t need enormous funding to compete. What’s crucial is having a compelling message, a list of doors to knock on, and the willingness to engage directly.

Is the current officeholder mostly absent? Do they dodge contentious meetings? Are they making decisions that aren’t in line with district interests, like raising taxes or enacting unhelpful school policies? Are local meetings crowded with frustrated parents and residents? These are indicators that a seat is winnable, often unnoticed by the broader public.

A Simple Starting Point

You don’t need a degree in political science to run for local office. Here’s a simplified version of what I discuss in Run Right, tailored for local elections.

First, review how your district voted in recent elections. Have Republicans secured victories here before? Understanding this can help you gauge the feasibility of your campaign.

Clarify your motivation.

Why do you want this position, and how do you plan to serve? Keep your message straightforward and relevant. No one wants to hear national platitudes at a local school board meeting.

Gather a small group of people who’ll support you before you officially declare your candidacy. You don’t need a huge team; just a few individuals who share your passion. This builds essential support and offers social validation.

Then, start knocking on doors. This strategy is a proven winner in small races. While national campaigns rely on ads, local candidates thrive by engaging with people face to face.

Focus on Building a Deep Pool of Candidates

Instead of fixating on “Who’s our next great presidential candidate?”, we should ask, “Are we actively recruiting local candidates who prioritize American values?”

We need a deep pool of local talent.

Today’s local candidates can evolve into state roles and eventually national leadership. This is how the left established its influence—by steadily building their ranks, year after year, while we’ve often been distracted online.

Start Small, Then Build on Success

The presidency is the apex of a pyramid.

But the foundation consists of school boards, city councils, county offices, and state legislatures. If we fail to win at these levels, nothing above it can stand firm for long.

So, here’s my request:

Stop waiting for the next big national election to take action. Look at your local school board, city council, county commission, and state house. Identify a seat that you can feasibly win. Either recruit a suitable candidate or, better yet, consider running yourself.

This is how we can achieve victories in 2026 and continue winning beyond that.