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Every election cycle, thousands of public office seats are contested across the nation and oftentimes, these seats go uncontested. With approximately 519,682 seats available, more than 500,000 positions are at the local level, including school boards, municipalities, and counties—making up 96 percent of all public offices. The remaining 18,000 are at the state level (3.6 percent), and just 537 at the federal level (0.1 percent).
As a former Texas state legislator (being the first Latina elected to my district seat) and two-term school board trustee and president, I can’t help but reflect on my conversations over the past months across the nation with accomplished professionals who are pivoting in their career, and with powerhouse aspiring leaders. The following question invariably comes up: “Where do I start?”
Growing up in a border town in Southwest Texas, I saw firsthand the disparities in basic services, particularly in education. My community lacked access, resources, and representation. Even in my formative years, I knew something had to change, but I didn’t yet know how to make my voice heard.
Over time, I sought out knowledge, volunteered, and attended networking events. I was determined to understand how leadership and advocacy worked, and I built a résumé on a framework instilled by my parents on work ethic and integrity that would transition into public office because I believed in the value of access to education and putting your best foot forward in helping your neighbor.
But it wasn’t easy. Insights weren’t readily shared by the people in power and hierarchy establishment. The path was blurred on purpose.
“Even in my formative years, I knew something had to change, but I didn’t yet know how to make my voice heard.”
Diana Maldonado
Then, one day, the opportunity presented itself. As a single parent, I found myself at a crossroads: continue my stable career as a state government employee or take the biggest risk of my life to run for public office. It wasn’t an ideal time, but that’s when the universe tests you!
Yet this decision had a big void because I did not have anyone relatable at the time to lean on for answers and share my vulnerability. How was I going to be the best mom while being a candidate requiring an inordinate amount of time? The journey was one of uncertainty and without guarantees, but staying status quo was a higher price to pay.
Have you thought about running for office? Whether you are an experienced or aspiring leader, take a moment to assess the time and dedication you’ve invested in your career, volunteer efforts, and community engagement.
If public service is part of your vision, ask yourself:
- What does meaningful impact look like to you?
- What are the issues that matter most to your community?
- What is your WHY?
By stepping back to seeing the bigger picture, you can gain clarity on where to start. I wish I had a structure in place beforehand, which would have minimized my stress and anxiety level among other potholes that campaigns throw your way.
I ran four campaigns, and I gained invaluable knowledge every time. I came away with being named freshman of the year at the state legislature, secured $16 million for education, a $10 million road project, and hiking trails for parks for my district—all in one session. It is not for the faint of heart, but it is a rewarding experience with the right support and mindset.
“People ask if I will run again because my passion and purpose remain strong. But my response is that my impact is more meaningful when I help other women be a winning candidate to own their future.”
Diana Maldonado
People ask if I will run again because my passion and purpose remain strong. But my response is that my impact is more meaningful when I help other women be a winning candidate to own their future and of others through the Candidate School, all the things I wish I knew before running for office.
Thinking about running for office but not sure where to start? The First-Time Candidate’s Campaign Checklist is your step-by-step guide to launching a strong campaign with confidence. From filing the right paperwork to crafting your message and building a team, this checklist covers everything you need to get started.
I’ve put this together to help first-time candidates avoid common pitfalls and start their campaigns on the right foot. Download it for free now at DianaMaldonado.com and take your first step toward public office!
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Hispanic Executive or Guerrero Media.
Diana Maldonado, a respected Central Texas political figure, has built a career on achieving the “impossible” while fostering lasting relationships. As a best-selling author, she shares stories from her journey in politics, travel, and running marathons through the lens of a Latina. Her Candidate School course shares everything she wished she’d known during her own campaign journey. This ultimate resource equips professional women with the tools to become powerful, persuasive, and authentic candidates. From mastering your candidate identity to managing money, policy, and power strategically and ethically, this program helps you navigate the political arena with confidence.
