How to Run for Political Office

New Jersey high school teacher and filmmaker Dean Greco decided in 2008 to run for Congress, representing his district in the independent “Breakfast Party.” While that might sound like a frivolous bid, Greco's long-term ambition was to be able to tell his students and the world what the process was like. Greco quickly discovered that it was easy for any American citizen to try to get on the ballot, but everything that followed turned out to be quite challenging. After meeting the basic requirements of age and residency in New Jersey, Greco must get the minimum number of signatures required to be on the ballot—a hard-won achievement. Along the way, every conversation that the potential candidate has with a voter offers an opportunity to listen and absorb, while also being able to articulate and clarify views. The process of forging oneself into a viable politician carries over into every other phase of the campaign, from raising and spending money, to public speaking, to seeking endorsements. Not surprisingly, Greco finds that the two dominant parties, Republicans and Democrats, will do anything to scuttle a third party's chances. But he also learns that staking out positions on smaller issues is good practice for preparing to address more serious ones as part of a platform. Ultimately, Greco loses (he garners a few thousand votes), but he does end up having a certain authority on the subject that he is able to bring back to his classroom. Offering interesting insights into the American political system, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh)