Cascade Bicycle Club's endorsement process
Overview
In order to receive an endorsement from Cascade Bicycle Club, candidates must demonstrate a commitment to working in the legislature to create a better community through bicycling. Cascade will evaluate candidates based on their record on bicycling-related matters, responses to the questionnaire, viability, willingness to learn more about and champion bicycling issues, and their experience. Cascade will issue early endorsements in mid-May, primary election endorsements in mid-June, and general election endorsements in late-September.
Early Endorsements
Cascade will issue early endorsements in mid-May to a select group of previously endorsed incumbents who have demonstrated leadership in creating a better community through bicycling. Cascade will contact all candidates prior to issuing an early endorsement to discuss why they are being considered for an early endorsement. Candidates selected for an early endorsement will not be required to submit a questionnaire.
Primary and General Election Endorsements
Cascade will issue primary election endorsements in mid-June and will consider previously endorsed incumbents who were not selected for an early endorsement (but still demonstrated a commitment to creating a better community through bicycling), outstanding candidates running for open seats, and pro-bicycling challengers taking on a non-bicycle friendly incumbent. Cascade will issue general election endorsements in late-September to all worthy candidates.
Previously Endorsed Candidates
Cascade will evaluate the record of previously endorsed incumbents and determine whether their actions merit an automatic re-endorsement, or if additional information is necessary before making an endorsement. If additional information is deemed necessary, Cascade will contact the candidate to inform them of the type of information required, which may include an informal conversation, a questionnaire, or a formal interview.
Challengers and Non-Previously Endorsed Candidates
Cascade will evaluate challengers and non-previously endorsed candidates based on their record on bicycling-related matters, responses to the questionnaire, viability, willingness to learn more about and champion bicycling issues, and their experience. Candidates may be asked to participate in an informal conversation and/or a formal interview as part of the endorsement process.
Campaign Contributions
Cascade's political arm, BikePAC, will make campaign contribution determinations following the release of Cascade's general election endorsements, except in extraordinary circumstances where it may make earlier contributions.
Endorsement Questions and Information
Candidates should contact Cascade's Policy and Government Affairs Manager, Craig M. Benjamin, at craig.benjamin@cascadebicycleclub.org or (206) 713-6204 with any questions regarding Cascade's endorsement process. Candidates may download the 2012 Federal Candidate Questionnaire or the 2012 State Legislative Candidate Questionnaire.
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