Ian on Camp Russ Carnahan

Ian Mackey wrote up this report of his time at Camp Russ Carnahan:

This past weekend over 120 Missouri democrats traveled from every corner of the state to Washington University’s School of Law in order to participate in Camp Russ Carnahan, sponsored by Grassroots Solutions. These devout dems arrived eager to sharpen their skills, refuel their minds, and engage in an interactive learning process. Although the camp allowed brief times to reflect on the losses of the last cycle, the majority of workshops focused on moving forward with concrete strategies and a better understanding of campaign fundamentals.

Camp participants were asked to choose from one of three specific tracks. The first track focused on issue advocacy. Whether a representative from an independent organization, or simply a concerned citizen, participants on this track learned how to better communicate their message, spread awareness of the issue, and utilize resources available to them, as well as persuasion techniques.

Camp Russ Carnahan also attracted many potential democratic candidates. Some were considering a run for city council, others the school board, and a few were considering a run for state representative. In the track to becoming a better candidate participants learned the basics of running for office, including a detailed list of specific responsibilities of a candidate. Along with learning the fundamentals, these potential candidates also ended the week with a newfound confidence that will hopefully seal their decision.

Many of the participants chose to attend the workshops focusing on campaign management. From a sophomore in high school, to current law students, to already paid professionals hoping to perfect their skills, everyone was willing to learn. The majority of these participants were seeking a professional job in the next cycle, but some were simply attending to learn more about politics, in general, and potentially volunteer. Many connections were made, and several potential candidates had a list offers.

All three of the campaign tracks were conducted by well-known professionals, and insiders, with expertise in specific areas. Many lectures were conducted by long-time Missouri political strategist, and co-founder of firedupmissouri.com, Roy Temple. Other workshops were taught by former coordinator for the Clinton Campaign in Pennsylvania, Mary Esther Van Shura, former media consultant for Bill Bradley, Sara Howard, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee organizer, Guy Cecil, and camp organizer from Grassroots Solutions, Sean Gagen. In addition to these remarkable individuals guest speeches were also given by former Senator Jean Carnahan, Secretary of State Robin Carnahan, and of course Congressman Russ Carnahan. There is no doubt that each person left Camp Russ Carnahan more knowledgeable, more confident, and more eager than when they arrived. The intense 2 ½ day training also created numerous networks, job opportunities, and friendships. This process brought different people closer with real-life simulations, encouraged more organization through the structured meetings, and provided a wealth of knowledge to everyone in attendance. Although the camp is somewhat different each year, this is the ninth successful year for Camp Carnahan, and certainly not the last.