Step One

Launching a campaign...

The first step an individual must take when they consider running for president is being recognized. By traveling all over the country, an individual can gain recognition from others.

Hey, everyone! I am announcing that I will be running for presidency in the upcoming election!

I should make sure to start my campaign early to give others time to learn more about me!

It is important to start campaigning early and be identified by others. Candidates typically begin the process two years, or even four years, ahead of the election.

 I need to make sure I have enough followers and money to pull this off!

However, running a campaign can be costly. A candidate show make sure they have enough money and followers to be able to pull this off.

I definitely need some help from others!

Running a campaign is no easy task! Candidates may reach other to other organizations to help their campaigns through fundraisers. Some may seek out media specialists to attract attention from citizens, while others may opt to seek endorsements from well-known people.

Hey! You're a really famous dog. Will you endorse my campaign?

Sure!

There are strategies to creating a successful campaign. Candidates often rely on timing, how they communicate with their followers, theme, and target audiences.

Step Two

Primary Elections

The purpose of a primary election is for a party to decide on who will represent their party in the election. The goal for a candidate is to win delegate to gain nomination from their party

Nominate me!

The timeline of primary election goes as followed:

What are delegates? Washington the dog will explain it to you!

Delegates are representatives from each state that will be going to the National Convention to support a candidate from the party. The goal for the candidate is to win as many delegates by winning the popular votes from each state.

In open primary states, a person doesn't have to be registered to a specific party to vote for them.

I am a Democrat but I will be voting for Donald Trump this year!

In contrast, there are also closed primary states. Pennsylvania is one of them. In closed primary state, a person must register to a specific party to be able to vote for their candidate.

I must register as a Democrat in order to vote for Kamala Harris!