HOMEGROWN POLITICIANS
Politics is Always Local
Ever wonder how someone ends up in Congress, or even running for President? The answer usually starts much closer to home than you think. Many of our national leaders began in “nonpartisan” roles like school board trustee, parks commissioner, or city councilmember.
These seats may look apolitical on the surface, but they are often the first step in a long political journey. That’s why it's critical to pay attention to every name on the ballot, even the ones at the bottom. Because today’s mosquito abatement board member might be tomorrow’s lawmaker.
You’ve seen the signs on street corners: “Vote for Parks Commissioner!” or “Elect Jane Doe for School Board!” Most of us assume these roles are about textbooks, zoning, or keeping the playgrounds clean, not politics.
But here’s the thing: today’s state assembly or congressional candidate often starts out in a PTA meeting or on the city planning commission. Politics isn’t just born in Washington; it’s homegrown, cultivated at kitchen tables and city halls across America.
The Political Pipeline
Many politicians begin their careers in so-called nonpartisan roles—school boards, planning commissions, city councils—not because they’re apolitical, but because these positions provide essential experience.
First, they’ve already been elected—they’ve navigated the campaign process. Second, they’ve been publicly vetted through meetings, decisions, and community scrutiny.
These local roles act as springboards, helping aspiring politicians:
Build name recognition
Sharpen public speaking and leadership skills
Make connections with established political figures who can open doors to higher office
The quiet neighborhood committee today might be the launchpad for national influence tomorrow.
Why Your Vote Matters—At Every Level
Do your homework. Seriously. Every candidate on your ballot—no matter how small the office—deserves a closer look. You’d be amazed at what a quick online search can reveal.
Here’s your checklist:
✔️ Look up endorsements
✔️ Follow the money (who’s donating?)
✔️ Attend candidate forums
✔️ Ask questions—especially the tough ones, like:
• “Which political party or ideology do you align with?”
• “Who has donated to your campaign?”
I guarantee the other folks in the room want to know, too.
Even if the office is labeled “nonpartisan,” remember the stepping stones. This is how political careers are built. The person you elect today could shape policy tomorrow. A candidate should be honest about their values and affiliations, because the job they’re running for is likely just the beginning.
Call to Action
It starts with you—showing up, asking questions, and casting an informed vote. Once you have the facts, you can use your ballot to protect the values and community you care about.
Today’s city council member could be tomorrow’s county supervisor… then a state assemblymember… and before you know it, a member of Congress.
You know the drill.
So don’t accidentally launch someone you disagree with just because “they seem nice” or their race felt “too small to matter.”
Get out there.
Do the homework.
Know who you’re voting for—every time.