Get Informed
On the other hand, there are also likely to be local elections in your area where information on the candidates is (seemingly) no where to be found. Nevertheless, it is important to get to the truth of the matter in order to educate voters on a particular issue.
A few of the ways to get informed are:
Visit nonpartisan websites that list information about candidates' positions and, if they have previously held office, what their legislative record is. These sites have already done extensive research and are providing the information for just the purpose of educating voters and saving you the time of doing the research.
A few to check out are: www.voterpunch.org, which allows you to search all Congressional records for their performance on progressive issues; www.vote-smart.org, which contains extensive information on national and state candidates' voting records, campaign contributions, stance on the issues and ratings from special interest groups; and www.publicagenda.org, which can help you identify your key issues and find out who supports them and who opposes them.
Visit the Candidates websites. Almost everyone running for office has an official website which lays out their position on the issues. Campaign websites can be a great resources because they provide you with a ton of information, but remember, they are trying to win your vote! So be sure to compare candidates and take what you read with a grain of salt!
Submit a survey to the candidates to get their positions on the issues. This is a great idea for state or local elections. It is often a good idea to do so under the affiliation of an organization. Are you on the local PTA? Collectively submit a questionnaire on public education. Member of a local peace coalition? Think of questions you want the candidates to answer about combating violence in your community. Don't be afraid to call the campaigns and gently remind them to return your survey.
Talk to people. That's right, talk to people about politics! Ask people you trust what they think. If you're a member of a local progressive organization, ask the staff. If you volunteer in your community, ask the people you volunteer with. If you're a member of an organization that has a PAC (Political Action Committee) ask the leadership who the PAC is supporting. Ask your neighbors what they know about the candidates. You might even find some kindred spirits!
Expose yourself to a wide selection of media daily. Read local and national newspapers, journals, online weblogs, and television news. Seek out information on the candidates from multiple media sources.