Study Local
Demographics
To win voters it is necessary to understand who they are, what their needs are and what is important to them. Every region, every state, every county and every community is different. In fact, differences can exist even at the family level. The objective, then, is to appeal not to all, but to the greatest number. Anyone we choose as a candidate must be familiar with the people he wants to represent. This is called "demographics".
Appealing to the majority is not an easy task - it requires a lot of research. You cannot give them what they want or need unless you know what they want and need. The simplest way to do that is to just ask. Put together a questionnaire that is designed to get people to tell you what is important to them in relation to a political platform. What would they want you to do for them as their representative? By formulating multiple choice questions, ask about things like taxes, health care, economics, etc. For example, you might ask if they would prefer tax money being used to provide foreign aid, or use that money for domestic needs. Sample choices could be to use the funds for the homeless, infrastructure (roads, bridges etc), education etc.
It might be more interesting for them if they can participate via a community "get to know you" event where you can ask questions and they can stand respond immediately and in person. This serves a dual purpose - you let them know their needs are important to you, and they get to know you. People are more apt to vote for someone they know and like. Be ready for discussions, and use the opportunity to inform and persude where necessary.
You will discover you can learn a lot about the demographics in this way, as farmers will be more concerned about agricultural issues than with corporate issues, and the vneeds of executives will differ from blue collar workers. And the 20-35 age group will have different needs from the 55-80 age group.
You need not get too detailed - you simply need to know what motivates voters in your area.
