(I thought the above picture was apporiate.  It was taken during Democratic Women's Legislative Day at the capitol in the Treasurer's Vault.  If only fundraising were that easy!)

At the young democrat convention, the Lt. Governor's Chief of Staff gave a wonderful training on fundraising and I'd like to share some of the things I learned.

When fundraising for a campaign, a candidate's job is to fundraise. Before ever working on any campaign, remember a candidate has 3 jobs: ask for money, ask for votes, and know the issues. A student cannot say,"Well, I'll only do 2/3 of my homework." Likewise, acandidatemust be willing to do 1/3 of their job - ask for money.

It is important that candidates makeappearancesat events, and even host their own events, but this should come afterasking for money.A candidate should spend 25-35 hours a week asking for money.Sending letters asking for money usually ends up costing more than you make. Want money and want it fast? Just ask. Asking in person offers you the biggest chance. If you cannot ask in person, there is still a greater chance of obtaining a pledge on the phone than through a letter.

This proves difficult for judicial candidates, as they are not permited to ask for money. Judicial Candidates must create a finance committee and their finance committee's job is to ask for money. It is best to have a judicial candidate call or speak with someone, then as soon as possible, the same day or the following day, have a member of their finance committee call that person. Keep in mind that many people do not know the restrictions of a judicial candidate. It is important to explian this restriction to potential donors so they don't think a candidate simply didn't feel comfortale asking for money themselves.

Now, go raise some money!