The following was found on The Champion web site. It was in a section devoted to helping people run for public and party office. The following is reprinted with permission in its entirety. Helpful hints for other offices may be found here.
STEP ONE MEET THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Registered voter of the precinct.
STEP TWO GET ON THE BALLOT
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Obtain a Petition Packet (Nominating Petition Form (SBE P-27), Statement of Candidacy and Loyalty Oath) from either the Illinois State Board of Election’s Springfield or Chicago office. The Petition Packet will also be available on the Illinois State Board of Election’s website.Circulate Nominating Petitions.
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You may begin circulating your Nominating Petitions on August 7, 2007.Meet the Signature Requirements. Nominating Petitions must contain the valid signatures of a minimum of 10 primary electors of the Republican Party.
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File Nominating Papers. The filing period begins October 29, 2007 and ends November 5, 2007. The following documents must be filed with the Office of the County Clerk:
Statement of Candidacy
Nominating Petitions
Loyalty Oath (Optional)
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Download a copy of the 2008 Candidate’s Guide issued by the Illinois State Board of Elections.
STEP THREE CAMPAIGN
A campaign for Precinct Committeeman often won’t require a great deal of campaigning, at least relative to many public offices encompassing larger districts.
However, it’s never too early to start running effective campaigns. While Precinct Committeemen races are small, they offer an excellent way to get started in politics. Many top public officials will tell you they cut their teeth in politics as a Precinct Committeeman. Some even remain Precinct Committeemen as they seek other posts in public office.
- Contact every Republican voter in your precinct and let them know about your commitment to increasing voter registration and turnout in your Precinct, as well as helping Republican candidates running for public office.
- Take advantage of community and neighborhood events as a way to reach-out and get to know the voters in your precinct. You will likely find some friends and neighbors who never considered voting Republican before will consider doing so now, thanks to your involvement. That’s what this position is all about.
An observant reader will realize the same techniques can be used to run for precinct committeeman in the Democratic Party, although in McHenry County, you can probably raise your hand and have the job.