Heirs of Liberty Press

Grassroots Candidacy: Is It Possible to Win?

Scott Herron, Editor

 

Can an ordinary American win a national election against seemingly impossible odds?

Look to Jason Chaffetz for an inspiring answer to that question. 

Chaffetz announced in 2007 that he would run against Utah's 3rd District six-term incumbent, Chris Cannon for the Republican nomination.

Chaffetz garnered no significant endorsements, did not provide perks or pay to his grassroots organization of over 1,000 volunteers.  Most of his campaign contributions came from individual donors and he ran a debt free campaign.

The incumbent Cannon, on the other hand, was endorsed by George W. Bush, Orin Hatch and Bob Bennett, had a paid staff, and endorsement of all three local newspapers.

Chaffetz delivered a stunning upset of 60% to 40% against his incumbent opponent.

In the 2008 general election, Chaffetz faced Democrat Bennion Spencer and Jim Noorlander from the Constitution Party.

Chaffetz not only won the general election but also received the highest percentage (66%) of any of the three represenatives from Utah.

And if you don't know who Chaffetz is...he's the guy in Congress who sleeps on a cot in his office because he won't take tax-payer money for a residence.

 With the righteous indignation many Americans feel toward the two major parties entrenched in Washington, now, if ever, may be the time for you to consider a run for office.