Check your city’s eligibility requirements
Confirm age, residency, and voter registration rules
Review filing deadlines and campaign finance laws
Decide whether to run as a party candidate or independent
Gather required signatures or petition support
File candidacy paperwork with the proper election office
Register a campaign committee
Open a campaign bank account
Create a campaign budget
Build a campaign team
Develop your campaign message
Research local issues and voter concerns
Create a campaign website and social media presence
Start voter outreach and community engagement
Attend public forums and candidate debates
Fundraise legally and report contributions
Collect endorsements and volunteer support
Plan get-out-the-vote efforts
Monitor compliance with election rules
Prepare for election day operations
Continue outreach until polls close