As election season approaches, you may find yourself face-to-face with local political candidates vying for your vote.
But how do you cut through the campaign promises and political rhetoric to understand where they stand on the issues that matter most to your community?
Asking the right questions is key.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Why it’s crucial to engage with local candidates
- 10 essential questions to ask them
- How to interpret their responses
- What to look for in a candidate you can trust
By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision at the ballot box.
Let’s dive in.
Vital Questions to Ask Local Political Candidates
1. What inspired you to run for this office?
Start by asking the candidate about their motivations for running. This question can reveal a lot about their values, priorities, and level of commitment to public service. You might phrase it as:
“I’m curious, what made you decide to throw your hat in the ring for this position?”
Listen closely to how they respond. Do they talk about a genuine desire to serve the community and make a positive impact? Or do they seem more focused on personal ambition or partisan politics? A candidate who is running for the right reasons will have a compelling story to share about why this office matters to them.
If they struggle to articulate a clear and heartfelt motivation, that could be a red flag. You want a candidate who is running because they deeply care about the issues and the people they represent, not just because they see it as a stepping stone to higher office.
On the other hand, if their answer resonates with you and aligns with your values, that’s a good sign that they could be a strong advocate for your community. Take note of any specific issues or experiences they mention, as you’ll want to follow up on those topics.
2. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing our community right now?
Next, ask the candidate to identify the most pressing issues in your area. This will give you insight into how well they understand the needs and concerns of the constituents they hope to serve. Try a question like:
“From your perspective, what are the top challenges our community is grappling with at this moment?”
Pay attention to whether they have a strong grasp of the local landscape. Do they mention issues you know are important, like affordable housing, public safety, or school funding? Or do they seem out of touch or focused on matters that don’t directly impact your community?
A candidate who has done their homework will be able to speak in depth about the specific challenges facing different neighborhoods, demographics, and sectors. They should have facts and figures at their fingertips, and be able to paint a vivid picture of how these issues play out in residents’ daily lives.
If they give a vague or generic answer, press them for more details. Ask how they arrived at their assessment and what sources they’ve consulted to inform their understanding of the community’s needs.
Also note if they seem to be glossing over or downplaying serious challenges that you know are top-of-mind for many voters. A candidate who tries to sugarcoat reality may not be prepared to tackle tough problems head-on.
3. What specific policies or initiatives would you champion to address those challenges?
Once the candidate has identified key challenges, ask them how they would address those issues in office. This is where you start to get into the meat of their platform and policy proposals. You can ask something like:
“What concrete steps would you take to tackle the problems you just mentioned? Are there any specific policies or programs you would put forward?”
Listen for responses that are detailed, feasible, and grounded in reality. Beware of candidates who make big promises they can’t possibly keep, or who offer simplistic solutions to complex challenges.
For example, if a candidate says they want to fix the local school system, ask them to get specific. What changes would they make to the curriculum? How would they allocate funding? What measures would they take to support teachers and ensure all students have access to a quality education?
The best candidates will have a clear and comprehensive plan for how to move the needle on key issues. They’ll be able to explain their proposals in plain language and connect the dots to show how these policies would make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
If a candidate seems light on specifics or unable to articulate a coherent vision, that could indicate they haven’t thought deeply about how to translate their values into action. Or they may be overpromising, telling voters what they want to hear without a realistic strategy to follow through.
4. How would you work with those who don’t share your views to find common ground?
In a time of deep political polarization, it’s crucial to elect leaders who can bridge divides and work collaboratively with those across the aisle. Ask the candidate how they plan to build consensus and find common ground with political opponents. You might say:
“If elected, you’ll likely have to work with colleagues and constituents who don’t always see eye-to-eye with you. How would you go about finding compromise and forging alliances to get things done?”
Watch for candidates who emphasize listening, empathy, and open-mindedness. The most effective leaders are skilled at considering different viewpoints, identifying shared goals, and crafting win-win solutions that meet everyone’s needs.
Be wary of anyone who seems overly rigid or dogmatic in their views. Candidates who paint the other side as enemies or villains aren’t likely to be productive partners in government. Likewise, those who insist on ideological purity over pragmatism may have a hard time accomplishing anything of substance.
Of course, you don’t want a candidate who abandons their principles at the first sign of opposition. Look for someone who can articulate a clear vision and stick to their guns on core values, but who also understands the necessity of compromise in a democracy.
Ask for examples of times the candidate has successfully worked across party lines or brokered agreements between disparate groups. Past behavior is often the best predictor of how they’ll perform in office.
5. What experience do you have that qualifies you for this role?
While passion and good intentions are important, they aren’t sufficient to make someone an effective public servant. You also want a candidate who has the knowledge, skills, and track record to excel in the role they’re seeking. Ask them directly:
“What in your background has prepared you to take on the responsibilities of this office? What qualifications or experiences will allow you to hit the ground running on day one?”
The ideal answer will vary depending on the specific position, but in general, you’re looking for candidates who demonstrate relevant expertise, a history of community involvement, and strong leadership capabilities.
For example, if you’re evaluating candidates for a seat on the school board, you might give preference to those with experience as educators, parents of school-aged children, or advocates for youth issues. If you’re considering candidates for county treasurer, a background in finance, accounting, or business could be a major asset.
Don’t just take their word for it. Ask for concrete examples of how they’ve put their skills and knowledge to work in service of the community. Have they volunteered with local organizations? Served on any relevant boards or committees? Led successful initiatives to solve problems or improve people’s lives?
Also pay attention to intangible qualities like communication style, temperament, and work ethic. The best candidates will be articulate, level-headed, and deeply committed to the hard work of governing.
Remember, holding public office is a solemn responsibility. You want to choose candidates who have the gravity and maturity to wield their power wisely and act as responsible stewards of the public trust.
6. How would you make government more accessible and responsive to constituents?
One of the most common complaints about government is that it feels distant, opaque, and unresponsive to the needs of ordinary citizens. Ask candidates how they would work to bridge that gap and make government more accountable to the people it serves. You could say:
“Many people feel disconnected from the decisions being made on their behalf. What steps would you take to make the workings of government more transparent and accessible to constituents?”
Strong candidates will have concrete ideas for how to open up channels of communication between elected officials and the public. They might propose holding regular town hall meetings, setting up online forums for constituent feedback, or establishing citizen advisory boards to provide input on key issues.
They should also have a plan for making government information more readily available and easy to understand. That could include measures like live-streaming public meetings, posting financial reports and other documents online, and creating user-friendly guides to help people navigate complex bureaucratic processes.
Pay attention to how the candidate talks about the role of constituents in the governing process. Do they see the public as partners to be engaged and consulted? Or do they take a more paternalistic view, assuming they know best and the people should just trust them to make decisions on their behalf?
The best leaders recognize that they serve at the pleasure of the people who elected them. They actively seek out input from constituents and view their role as being a conduit for the community’s needs and desires.
If a candidate seems dismissive of public opinion or resistant to transparency, that’s a worrying sign. After all, if they’re not willing to be open and accessible on the campaign trail, it’s unlikely they’ll be any more so once they’re in office.
7. What will you do to ensure underrepresented voices are heard?
In any community, some groups tend to have more political clout and access than others. Ask candidates how they will work to uplift marginalized and underrepresented voices. You might say something like:
“Our community is diverse, but not everyone has an equal say in the decisions that affect their lives. How would you go about engaging and empowering groups that have traditionally been left out of the political process?”
Look for candidates who have a track record of advocating for inclusivity and who demonstrate cultural competence. They should be able to speak knowledgeably about the unique challenges faced by different segments of the community and propose targeted strategies for increasing their participation and influence.
For example, they might pledge to appoint more diverse candidates to boards and commissions, host listening sessions in underserved neighborhoods, or partner with community organizations to register and mobilize voters.
Pay attention to how the candidate talks about issues of equity and justice. Do they acknowledge systemic barriers and inequities? Are they comfortable discussing topics like race, class, and gender? Do they approach these conversations with empathy, nuance, and a willingness to learn?
Beware of candidates who seem to dismiss the concerns of marginalized groups or who resort to stereotypes and dog whistles. You want leaders who will be champions for all members of the community, not just those who look like them or share their background.
Remember, a healthy democracy requires the full participation of all its citizens. The best candidates will be those who actively work to dismantle obstacles to civic engagement and ensure every voice is valued.
8. How will you balance short-term needs with long-term planning?
Effective governance requires a delicate balance between addressing immediate crises and investing in the future. Ask the candidate how they would approach this balancing act. Try a question like:
“If elected, you’ll likely face pressure to tackle urgent problems while also planning for the long-term health and vitality of our community. How will you prioritize and allocate resources to meet both short and long-term needs?”
This can be a tricky tightrope to walk. On one hand, constituents expect their leaders to be responsive to the issues affecting their daily lives, whether that’s filling potholes, keeping streets safe, or providing relief during emergencies.
At the same time, truly visionary leaders are always thinking ahead, laying the groundwork for a thriving community five, ten, or even fifty years down the road. That means making smart investments in things like infrastructure, education, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.
Look for candidates who demonstrate an ability to think systemically and connect the dots between near and long-term challenges. They should have a clear sense of the community’s immediate pain points, but also be able to articulate an inspiring vision for the future.
Ask them to give examples of how they would balance competing priorities. For instance, in the face of a budget shortfall, would they opt to cut services, raise taxes, or find creative ways to do more with less? How would they justify those decisions to constituents?
The best candidates will be able to explain their rationale in terms that resonate with voters’ values and lived experiences. They’ll acknowledge the difficult tradeoffs inherent in governing, but also express confidence in their ability to steer the community in a positive direction.
Be wary of anyone who makes blanket promises they can’t possibly keep, like cutting taxes while expanding services. Governing is about making hard choices, and the best leaders are honest about that reality.
9. What will you do to restore trust in government?
Let’s face it: faith in government is at a low ebb. Many people feel disconnected and disillusioned with the political process. Ask the candidates how they plan to restore public trust and confidence in our governing institutions. You could say:
“Poll after poll shows that Americans have lost faith in their elected leaders. What steps would you take to rebuild trust between the government and the people it serves?”
This is a big, thorny question and there are no easy answers. But strong candidates will have some concrete ideas for how to start chipping away at the cynicism and apathy that pervade our politics.
Some might focus on reforms to increase transparency and accountability, like strengthening ethics rules, requiring more disclosure of campaign contributions, or establishing independent redistricting commissions to end gerrymandering.
Others might emphasize the importance of authentic public engagement, making the case that trust is built through honest and open communication between leaders and constituents. They may propose new forums for dialogue and debate, or commit to holding regular office hours and town halls to stay in touch with the pulse of the community.
Pay attention to the candidate’s tone and demeanor when discussing this issue. Do they come across as sincere and attuned to the public mood? Or do they seem defensive or dismissive of people’s frustrations?
The best leaders will be those who can acknowledge hard truths and have the humility to admit when the system falls short. They’ll be clear-eyed about the scope of the challenge, but also hopeful about our collective capacity to rise above cynicism and work together for the common good.
Ultimately, restoring faith in government begins with electing leaders of integrity who are committed to serving with honesty, transparency, and a deep sense of moral purpose. As you evaluate candidates, ask yourself which ones embody those qualities and seem most likely to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
10. Why should voters trust you to represent their interests effectively?
End your conversation with the most important question of all: why should constituents place their trust in this candidate to fight for them and deliver results? You might put it like this:
“At the end of the day, voters are placing a great deal of faith in the person they elect to this office. Why should members of this community believe that you will be a tireless advocate for their interests and a responsible steward of their tax dollars?”
This is the candidate’s opportunity to make their closing argument and leave a lasting impression. They should use it to underscore the values and priorities that animate their campaign and highlight the unique strengths they would bring to the role.
Look for responses that demonstrate a deep understanding of the responsibilities of the office and a sober assessment of what it takes to wield power effectively. The best candidates will be those who convey a mix of confidence and humility, passion and pragmatism.
They’ll express an unwavering commitment to public service, but also make clear that they know they’re ultimately accountable to the voters who put them in office. They might talk about their intention to stay closely connected to constituents, champion the community’s interests in the halls of power, and always put people over politics.
Pay attention to how the candidate talks about the nature of representation. Do they see their role as simply reflecting the majority’s will? Or do they believe leadership sometimes requires making difficult, even unpopular decisions in service of the greater good? There’s no one right answer, but you want someone who’s given real thought to the complex dynamics of governing in a pluralistic society.
Also, notice if the candidate can effectively connect their personal story and experiences to their vision for the office. The most compelling leaders are often those who can explain how their struggles and triumphs have shaped their values and motivated them to pursue public service.
At the end of your conversation, step back and ask yourself: does this person have the integrity, intellect, and resolve to be an effective advocate for me and my neighbors? Do I trust them to do what’s right, even when it’s hard? Would I feel confident with them at the helm during a crisis?
The vote you cast is a precious thing – an act of faith in the power of democracy to shape our shared destiny. By asking probing questions and carefully evaluating the candidates’ responses, you can ensure that faith is well-placed.
The upcoming election will have profound consequences for the future of your community. The leaders you choose will help steer the course on a range of critical issues, from economic development and public safety to education and the environment. Your vote is your voice in charting that course.
So don’t let the opportunity pass you by. Engage with the candidates, challenge them to earn your trust, and make an informed choice at the ballot box. The stakes are high, but so is the potential for positive change if we elect leaders who are up to the task.
By exercising your right and responsibility to vote, you help keep the flame of self-government burning bright. You affirm the enduring truth at the heart of the American experiment: that we are a nation of, by, and for the people, and that our destiny lies in our own hands. That’s a powerful legacy to be part of.
So go out and vote – for the sake of your community, your country, and the generations to come. The future is in your hands.
Conclusion
Asking tough, probing questions of political candidates is one of the most important things you can do as an engaged citizen.
By digging beneath the surface and pressing candidates to explain their positions, priorities, and plans, you help ensure that only those truly equipped to lead and serve earn the privilege of public office.
The ten questions explored in this article offer a roadmap for evaluating candidates and cutting through the noise of modern campaigning.
Whether you’re attending a town hall, watching a debate, or hosting a meet-and-greet, keep these questions at the forefront, and don’t settle for vague platitudes or empty promises.
Remember, the officials we elect work for us. We are the boss, and it’s our right and responsibility to hold them accountable.
By asking smart, targeted questions and carefully weighing the responses, we can choose leaders who truly reflect our values and have the skills and integrity to move our communities forward.
So stay engaged, stay informed, and most importantly, stay committed to the hard work of citizenship. Our system of self-government depends on the active participation of the governed.
Voting is vital, but it’s just the beginning.
True change happens when we the people resolve to stay involved and make our voices heard before, on, and after Election Day.
In that spirit, consider this article a catalyst for further civic action.
Take the insights you’ve gleaned and put them into practice. Share this knowledge with your friends and neighbors.
Organize candidate forums and issue-focused discussions in your community.
Write letters to your representatives and your local paper.
Attend government meetings and speak up about the issues that matter most to you.
Democracy isn’t a spectator sport.
It requires all of us to roll up our sleeves and engage fully in the messy, difficult, thrilling work of self-governance.
So let’s get to work, armed with the power of probing questions and a commitment to doing our part to shape a society that works for all.
The future of our communities and our country depends on it.