To get on the ballot, I need 2,000 signatures - same as in 2006. I’m realizing that it’s actually going to harder this time, even though I’ve been around the block a few times on this process.
In 2006 there were about a half dozen people running for mayor, two people running for Council Chairman, a competitive At-Large Council Member race, about a dozen people running in Ward 3, even more in Ward 5, and a few in Ward 6. The excitement of the mayor’s race and about 50 candidates all getting signatures made for a number opportunities to get a lot of signatures at one event like a debate or endorsement vote.
This time around, there’s no mayor’s race, no Council Chair race, no real race to speak of in the at-large seat (talking Democratic primary, not the general where are few people are looking at Carol Schwartz) and no real competition in Ward 4 or Ward 7. That lack of excitement and dearth of petition gathering operations makes my job that much harder.
I do like going out and getting the signatures, I really do, it’s fun to talk to people at events and farmer’s markets. Most people are nice and sign right away, some need some facts before they sign, and some say they need to know more. Some even know who I am…which is always a trip since I never assume anyone has heard of me.
It’s a great way to meet people, and since I got just about all 2,000 signatures plus myself in 2006, I do think it’s why I won. I just wish I didn’t have to get so freakin’ many!!
So if you see me in front of the metro, a Safeway, or at a local farmers market…please come over and sign my petition and bring a few friends along. If you want to help get signatures, shoot me an email at mike.panetta(at)gmail.com.
