Many people don’t know that in order to run for office in Rockville, you need to submit a petition signed by 100 registered voters who live in Rockville.  Persons running for state senator or delegate don’t have the same requirement, so at first I was a bit puzzled and wondered why we had to jump through this hoop.  Now that I’m in the process, it does make sense.  If you’re running for public office, you need to be serious and have sufficient support from the community to place your name in the hat.  It does require time, but much more time will be needed if you’re elected.  Finally, it gets you out in the community–few people know one hundred people that meet the qualifications–and meet your fellow citizens.  That’s what I’ve enjoyed most about the process.

My signature collection process has been very strategic.  First, I privately asked people who knew me best and could offer friendly advice about the process and suggest how I could clarify my message.  I then went public with a booth at the Memorial Day festivities downtown to meet a broad range of people (most of whom weren’t from Rockville, but it gave me insights into who visits and shops).  Now I’m going door-to-door to various neighborhoods to meet registered voters, starting with my own neighborhood of Twinbrook.  Here’s what I learned so far: Continue reading →