Hey, Why Don’t You Run for Something?
A Talk by Melanie Rose (Eastern Regional Director, Run for Something)
About this Talk
This presentation teaches the fundamentals of deciding to run for local office and how Run For Something (RFS) supports young, progressive candidates through that journey.
How to decide to run: Clarify your why, identify the right office (what), find supporters (who), and assess personal considerations.
How RFS helps: Learn about their endorsement process, resources, training, and support for first-time candidates.
Campaign basics: Understand political jargon, how to build a team (like a “kitchen cabinet”), and how to start organizing your campaign and volunteer base.
Importance of local office: Grasp why running for local office is powerful and impactful for long-term progressive change.
About The Speaker
Melanie Rose
Melanie is the Eastern Regional Director at Run For Something, where she leads political strategy across key states—from recruiting candidates through election day and beyond. She shapes campaign and finance plans, advises on budgets, and ensures strategic decisions in critical races each cycle.
