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RNC Got You Jazzed? Here's How to Serve as a Future Convention Delegate

If seeing the political process up close has inspired you to get involved, here are a few tips for your campaign from newbie to political office.

by Nikki Delamotte | Jul. 22, 2016 | 4:00 PM

You now have four years to gear up. Greg Allison, a John Kasich delegate at this year’s convention, began in grassroots field office positions and now serves as the political director of the Republican Party of Cuyahoga County. He offers tips what to do once you have your political flier in the door.

Go above and beyond. While interning at the Ohio House Republican Organization Committee, Allison took on an extensive, handwritten campaign mailing. “I probably worked on it for 10 hours straight,” he says. “But the candidate I was helping went on to become Gov. Kasich’s campaign manager. Doing something like that can help you in the long-term. When opportunities show up, take them.”

Build strong connections. “Don’t just volunteer for a campaign. Recruit other volunteers, knock on doors, make phone calls, walk in a parade,” Allison suggests. “That’s how you get to know people. They’re always grateful for the help. If you have those good relationships, they’ll be supportive if you ever need anything.”

Get involved locally — at every level. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of presidential campaigns, but don’t forget to support county and state candidates year-round. “They’ll appreciate it more because they don’t have the big name,” he says. “But they have a huge impact on your state and local government.” 

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