The First 100 Days: What Every Campaign Should Do Before the Signs Go Up

Every campaign has a moment — usually sometime in the spring or early summer — when someone asks:

"When are we printing the yard signs?"

And while I love a good sign, I believe the most important work happens long before a single corrugated panel hits the lawn. If you are thinking of running for office — or helping someone who is — here is what the first 100 days should focus on.

01Clarify Why You Are Running

Not the polished message — the real reason. Before you think about slogans or policies or website copy, ask:

• What is the problem I am trying to solve?
• Who needs to hear this first?
• Why now?

If you can answer those clearly and calmly, you are already ahead of most candidates.

02Build a Real-World Support Map

This is not about winning on social media or collecting likes. Think about actual people:

• Who is already in your corner?
• Who needs to be convinced?
• Who has networks you do not?

We help campaigns draw this out visually — not just contact lists, but relational maps. It is how to turn a solo decision to run into a coalition that is ready to move.

03Get Your Story Straight

Way before media, messaging, or debates — there is your origin story. Your values. Your voice. We can help you build:

• A short, clear intro you can say in under 30 seconds
• A values-first pitch that connects with Kansans across parties
• A tone guide for consistent communication

04Build the System Now, Not Later

Do not wait until later to organize. That means today, right now, setting up:

• A volunteer intake pipeline
• A shared calendar
• A rapid-response team for social media
• Draft emails and fundraising templates in advance

Yard signs are great, but no one wins with a pile of signs and no systems in place.

05Think Like a Campaign, Act Like a Movement

Every strong campaign is two things at once: a candidate running for something specific, and a cause that resonates beyond the election. The first 100 days are your best shot at building the momentum, tone, and trust that will carry you through the chaos of a campaign year.