Should I run?

[Grumpier Than Uncle Joe]

Run only if you have something to say that you think will make a difference, know it cold, and you are doing this to give it more press. If you do it well, you will gain respect in your community. That's a grand step in anyone's life. But it needs to be about beef, not ego.

Exactly.  Also, if you don't have time to really devote yourself to the cause, don't do it.  There's no point to investing time into a write-in campaign unless you're going to go all out to promote your cause.  In that case, it's just a waste of your time that you could spend doing on something meaningful.

True, but if you are serious about making a run in the future a short campaign might get some attention from some of the regular politicos in the area. If so, that could translate to support in the future.

If I can ask, before you won, how many did you lose? 

[Grumpier Than Uncle Joe]

True, but if you are serious about making a run in the future a short campaign might get some attention from some of the regular politicos in the area. If so, that could translate to support in the future.

If I can ask, before you won, how many did you lose? 

Twice. Each time for a local office that I won the next time. The subsequent wins included support of those in power who hadn't seriously considered me the first time.

Thanks, muon.  As you noted, your campaign must have drawn attention from the politicos.....of course, I'm waiting for your elevation to Governor.....they need one who won't go to jail