Campaign School was developed by the American Farm Bureau Federation with input from political consultants and staff of both political parties. Videos, overheads, a case study and a computer game assist with the presentation of the seminar. Participants have an opportunity to have meaningful, hands-on experience to test techniques, tools and methods.

The purpose of Campaign School is to help candidates for public office, whether veteran office holders or first-time participants, plan and execute successful political campaigns.

The seminar is designed for candidates for public office, their spouses and their campaign managers. We also encourage individuals who may be interested in seeking elected public office at some future time.

Dates - October 11-12, 2023 (see full agenda below)

Location - Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation offices located at 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr., Madison, WI 53705

Costs - Members - $100, Non-Members - $175

Registration - There are only 26 registration spots available

Agenda

Day One – October 11, 2023

9:00 a.m. - Introductions
- The Candidate
  - Evaluate the candidate and the electorate.
  - Candidacy announcement and filing
  - Role of candidate’s spouse and family
12:00 p.m. - Lunch
1:30 p.m. -
- The Issues
  - Selecting the campaign theme
  - Selecting the campaign issues
  - Crafting your message
  - Communicating with voter
- The Money
  - Budget preparation
  - Raising money
  - Using a finance committee
  - Government reports
4:00 p.m.
- The Media
  - Mock interviews

Day Two – October 12, 2023

8:00 a.m. - Continental breakfast
8:30 a.m. -
- Conclude The Media
  - Review mock interviews.
- The Organization
  - Campaign structure
  - The role of the campaign manager
  - The use of support committees
  - Operations and resources
  - Earned media
  - Promotion activities
  - Volunteer recruitment and coordination
  - Allies and coalitions
12:00 p.m - Lunch
- The Strategy
  - Identify the voters
  - Targeting precincts
  - Targeting special interest groups
  - Developing a calendar to WIN
  - Using polls
  - Election day activities