Building a Team is the Foundation of Campaign Success
Yes, it’s technically possible to run a campaign alone. But it’s very unlikely to win that way — maybe 1 out of 15 local candidates manage it, and those are not good odds.
Donors and voters don’t just judge a candidate by what they say — they judge whether the candidate can rally people behind them. A campaign without a visible team looks risky, unprofessional, and unserious. Even if you’re working tirelessly, without a team you look like a lone wolf — and lone wolves rarely inspire confidence.
From there, you can add communications help, volunteer coordinators, and policy advisers. But with just these two roles in place, you’re already demonstrating the three qualities every successful campaign needs:
- Leadership – You can attract and motivate people to work for you.
- Credibility – You’re running a real campaign, not winging it.
- Accountability – Money and operations are being handled by the book.
Without these signals, fundraising dries up, volunteers drift away, and voters assume you aren’t ready for the job.
Your campaign starts with just two essential recruits:
Treasurer
This is your first priority. Campaign finance is complicated, and without a treasurer, you’re opening yourself up to mistakes that can sink you before you start. Donors also want proof their money will be handled responsibly. A named treasurer provides accountability — and in some states, the ability to raise funds at all. The Treasurer is the single most important member of your team. Recruiting a treasurer should be your sole focus, preferably prior to filing as a candidate.
Campaign Manager
Next, you need someone who helps guide strategy, keep you on schedule, and show that your campaign is more than one person’s hobby. Even if this role is filled by a dedicated volunteer, it signals credibility; that you’re serious and organized.
Bottom line
It cannot be overemphasized how important it is to have a team. Candidates without a team almost never win. If you want people to invest in your campaign, prove first that you’ve built one.
FAQ: Forming Your Campaign Team
Who should be my very first recruit? Your treasurer. Without one, you can’t raise money legally in most places.
How do I find and vet a reliable treasurer? Look for someone with bookkeeping, accounting, or finance experience, and make sure they’re detail‑oriented and trustworthy.
What makes a good campaign manager? Someone organized, level‑headed under pressure, and willing to keep both you and the campaign on track.
Can these roles be volunteers? Yes. While paid staff is ideal, many local campaigns run with committed volunteers filling these key positions.
