Information for Prospective Candidates

So You Think You Want to Run?

GREAT! Registered Dems should contact our Campaign Services Coordinator early in the exploratory process. We offer prospective candidates information and resources to help them make their decisions. Once they have filed for office, we offer qualified candidates a wide array of campaign supports including consideration for endorsement.

Candidate Filing Periods - 2026

May election (all candidates): Ends March 10

November election (local candidates): Ends August 25 (deadline is Aug. 18 for elected incumbents)

HRCD Endorsement of Candidates

If you are interested in being endorsed by the Hood River County Democrats, file to run early in the filing period, then contact our Campaign Services Coordinator. We conduct interviews and make endorsement decisions during the week before the end of the filing period.

Words of wisdom from Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) about running for office.

U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer: “One of the areas that makes the most difference is what happens at the state and local levels.”