sample letter of intent to run for elected office

If you are planning to run for an elected office, one of the essential first steps is to write a letter of intent. This letter outlines your intention to run for a specific position and highlights your qualifications, experience, and what you hope to achieve. In this article, we will provide you with seven sample letters of intent to run for an elected office to help you get started with your campaign.

Before we dive into the sample letters, let us first look at what a letter of intent is and why it is crucial for your campaign.

A letter of intent is a formal document that outlines your intention to run for an elected office. It is a way to inform the public and your potential constituents of your candidacy, your qualifications, and what you hope to achieve if elected. The letter should be concise, clear, and professional. By writing a letter of intent, you can start building your platform and garnering support for your campaign.

If you are unsure where to start, do not worry. You can find examples of letters of intent online and edit them to meet your needs. The sample letters we provide below are a great starting point, but remember to personalize them and make them your own.

Sample Letters of Intent to Run for Elected Office

Sample Letter of Intent for School Board

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Sample Letter of Intent for City Council

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Sample Letter of Intent for Mayor

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Sample Letter of Intent for County Commission

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Sample Letter of Intent for State Senate

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Sample Letter of Intent for Governor

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Sample Letter of Intent for Congress

Greeting

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

Paragraph 2 (Experience and Qualifications)

Complimentary Close

Tips for Writing a Letter of Intent to Run for Elected Office

Writing a letter of intent can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you write a compelling letter:

  • Do Your Research: Before writing your letter, research the position you are running for, the issues the constituents care about, and the demographics of the area.
  • Be Concise: Keep your letter to one page and focus on your qualifications and experience that make you the best candidate.
  • Be Professional: Use a professional tone and format, and avoid using slang or overly informal language.
  • Highlight Your Accomplishments: Highlight your accomplishments and what you hope to achieve if elected.
  • Personalize Your Letter: Personalize your letter and make sure it speaks to the needs of your constituents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Include in a Letter of Intent to Run for Elected Office?

A letter of intent should include your name, the position you are running for, your qualifications, experience, achievements, and what you hope to achieve if elected. Keep it concise and professional.

How Do I Address the Letter of Intent?

You can address the letter to the constituents, the voting public, or the election board. It is essential to use a formal and professional tone and address the recipient appropriately, such as “Dear Voters” or “Dear Constituents.”

Should I Mention My Political Affiliation in the Letter of Intent?

It depends on the position you are running for and the political climate in the area. If you are running for a nonpartisan position, such as school board or city council, it may not be necessary to mention your political affiliation. However, if you are running for a position that is typically affiliated with a particular party, such as governor or congress, it may be necessary to mention your political affiliation.

Do I Need to Include References in the Letter of Intent?

No, you do not need to include references in the letter of intent. However, you can mention endorsements or recommendations from influential people in the community, such as community leaders or business owners.

Can I Use a Template for My Letter of Intent?

Yes, you can use a template for your letter of intent, but make sure to personalize it and make it your own. You can find templates online, or you can use the sample letters we provide in this article.

When Should I Send the Letter of Intent?

You should send the letter of intent as soon as possible, but no later than the deadline set by the election board. This gives you time to build your platform and start campaigning.

Conclusion

Writing a letter of intent to run for an elected office is an essential step in any campaign. It allows you to introduce yourself to potential voters and highlight your qualifications and experience. By using the sample letters and tips we provide in this article, you can write a compelling letter of intent and start building your platform for a successful campaign.