Electing Cheryl Martin

Abstract

This activity, “Electing Cheryl Martin,” simulates the process of running for office in the US House of Representatives using a primary race for a midterm election as an example. You will assume the role of a campaign manager for Cheryl “Cherie” Martin (D-PA), a first-term congresswoman. In this capacity you will

  1. help Cherie define her policy platform,
  2. target likely supporters,
  3. raise funds for the campaign, and
  4. deploy resources to raise awareness and get out the vote (GOTV) for your candidate.
Learning Goals

After reading your text and completing this exercise, you will be able to:

  • explain differences between primary and general voters, and safe and contested districts;
  • understand and articulate the importance of fundraising and campaign finance rules in campaign management; and
  • explain the importance of voter turnout, and the concept of the likely voter, in election strategy.
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