When we reach out to a prospective candidate and she agrees to explore the possibility of running for the State Senate or Assembly, her Close the Gap California recruiter has a plan ready.
We provide information and insight, expert connections and coaching that enable a prospect to make a fully informed decision about whether and when to run. We offer these resources via a three-part exploration process that asks:
- Am I personally ready to run?
- Am I a good match for this district?
- Do I have the necessary experience, networks and understanding to be a competitive candidate?
Am I personally ready to run?
In the first phase of exploration we work with prospects to define core values, evaluate preparation and subject matter expertise, and ask them to consider important questions relative to their family and finances. When concerns arise, we identify solutions, mentors and coaches together.
These “tip sheets,” exercises, guides and webinars provide a more in-depth look at the types of discussions we undertake at the beginning of an exploration:
- First Steps: Questions for Potential Candidates
- 10 Origin Stories Women Legislators Share
- Prospective Candidate Self-Assessment Tool
- 10 Things to Do Before You File
- Webinar: “Why Women”
- The Barbara Lee Family Foundation: “Keys to Elected Office: The Essential Guide for Women
Are you still interested in exploring a legislative run?
Twenty women serving in the California Legislature today went through Close the Gap’s Exploration Process with a member of our team prior to launching her campaign.
Our goal is to work with you early– ideally at least 18 months before an election– to orient you to legislative campaign essentials and build your confidence and sophistication leading up to launch. Please fill out the questionnaire linked below and a member of our recruiting team will reach out to you.
This document is intended to give you an overview of the questionnaire. When you are ready to submit, please be sure to enter your responses using the button below.
Please note: Close the Gap is not a PAC and does not endorse or fund candidates. Completion of this questionnaire does not guarantee that we will offer you an exploration process.
