I am getting word back from people saying how crazy I am to think that it would cost $20k - $30k to run a successful campaign. According to our 2010 LM2 report we have a total of 4,383 members. To run a successful campaign you need to get some type of word out to all of these members (if you are running for President, Vice President or Secretary). Because the properties are so spread out the easiest answer is to mail them something. So let’s look at that:
Stamps $0.44each X 4,383 members $1941.67
That is only for the stamps. It does not include paper, ink, envelopes or access to the mailing list. All candidates have only one company that they are able to do this type of work for them and I do not see a candidate for President, Vice President or Secretary being able to spend less than $1 per member. To be closer on the real side you should at least expect to pay close to $2 to $3 per member just on one mailing. This will bring the actual cost for one mailing around $8,766.00 to $13,149.00 and this is only for a one time shot and does not include any other activity the candidate might do. The time, gas, travel expense, food and so much more is all a part of campaigning.
The only possible advantage I have over Bruce Hansen is the fact that I do not have a family to support and that allows me to have a little more disposable income. Bruce Hansen does have a strong following though that is chipping in to help on the cost so we all are finding our ways to make things happen. I feel that both Bruce Hansen and I understand that we are going to have to get the word out to as many members as possible to have a chance, to do that it will take a good chunk of money. Please remember that according to 2010 LM2 report President Hunt made almost $130k that is about double of what I am currently making. So to sacrifice half of one year’s income to double my income for three years is a no brainer, if you ask me. It is a gamble and that is the chance a person takes when they choose to become a candidate. Though the pay is an incentive and a motivator the duties of a union President is not easy and that person works hard. There are many different personalities, issues and problem solving the President must address on a daily bases.
Members will take note of the sacrifices a candidate makes so if you want to be a candidate start doing the math and figure out how you are going to work it out. The most successful campaign will be the candidates that have the most resources at hand. So as a member when you receive campaign information just remember that a candidate put a lot of effort to get that to you. Give the candidate a chance to at least read what the candidate has to say and most of all PLEASE vote. Every vote counts including yours.
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