Holistic Candidate Support Plan for 2026

We know that women face numerous challenges when contemplating a run for office, including concerns about safety, caregiving responsibilities, and financial barriers. Women Who Run is dedicated to breaking down these obstacles, and we are excited to present the Women Who Run Holistic Candidate Support Plan for 2026. This plan reinforces our dedication to equipping endorsed candidates with the resources, training, and community support they need to succeed and thrive.

Direct Contributions

Direct contributions, especially early contributions, are crucial for candidates and help them set up their campaigns for success and be ready to get to work talking to voters.

Training & Support

Training

  • We will provide our endorsed candidates with training sessions on various topics throughout the 2026 election cycle, including:

    • Finances & Fundraising

      1. Physical Safety & Digital Safety

      2. Messaging/Platform Creation

      3. Field/Door Knocking + Volunteer Engagement

      4. Digital Ads & Direct Mail Overview

      5. Get Out the Vote (GOTV)

  • Office Hours & 1:1 Support

    • Our endorsed candidates will have access to weekly office hours to get support and advice from our team, and we will provide individual support on an as-needed basis to ensure their success.

Volunteer Support

  • Direct Voter Contact

    • Our volunteers will help candidates connect with voters through postcard writing, phone banking, & canvassing.

  • Candidate Support Teams

    • Teams will work together to support candidates—this can mean bringing dinner, keeping them company as they make fundraising calls, and helping with various as-needed tasks.

  • Letters to the Editor

    • New this year! We will lead an effective and organized letter-to-the-editor program.

Candidate Wellbeing

We know that running for office can be tough, both physically and mentally, for candidates. We will ensure candidates have the tools they need to ensure their well-being throughout their campaign & beyond.

  • Safety

    • We will connect our candidates with experts to provide safety training and tips.

  • Mental Health & Wellbeing

    • From discounted or free partnerships with local workout studios to exploring ways to provide free or discounted mental health services.

  • Candidate Boosts

    • From a note in the mail to a small gift, we will look for ways to uplift and support our candidates.

  • Candidate Support Meetings

    • We will set up a time when candidates can come together in community (and let’s be honest, maybe do a little venting!)

  • Mentoring

    • We will connect Women Who Run Alumni Members with current candidates to offer their advice and expertise.

  • Post-Election Support

    • Being a candidate doesn’t stop on November 3; we will continue to support our candidates past election day—win or lose.

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