How do I raise the money I need to win? It is not good enough to raise money to run for an elected office, it is mandatory that candidates raise enough money to actually win. The hours, the stress, the dreams, the policy formations, the shaking of hands, the knocking on doors and lastly, the prayers on election night will be the same regardless.

The methods of raising money have changed since the 2000 election and Arizona Senator John McCain campaigns strong fund raising efforts via the Internet showed the political world that small donations have as much or more impact as large donations. The biggest advantage to small donors is what is attached to the donation. In most cases a vote will come with the donation. This is the real political capital. Every eligible voter has only one vote. Convincing them to spend the vote with your candidacy is the objective.

We can learn a lot from the recent creativity of the musician Prince. Recently he single handedly changed how the music industry calculates record sales. It was his idea to include in the concert ticket price to his show, the price of his recent album. The fan received a great concert plus a compact disc. Prince received a number one ranking for record sales of his latest CD. No one had to enter a retail venue. Everyone was a winner.

Reaching out to large dollar contributors is a must, be it statewide or National elections, but new methods will bring victory to creative campaigns. Todays challenged is finding brilliant ways of achieving multiple objectives. Obtaining the voters monetary support, obtaining their vote and obtaining their help in telling their friends and family about your candidacy.

I do not think it is enough to have a Pay Pal link on your website and hope the cash come in. You need to offer value with the donation. Keep it legal and be creative and you will find success at local and National levels.