by Kathy Groob, Publisher ElectWomen Magazine

What would 4^th of July be without hotdogs, fireworks and parades?  And what would parades be without elected officials and political candidates?  For many, the true meaning of the 4^th of July is forgotten until the patriotic music and flags go by in a neighborhood parade that reminds us of the celebration of independence and a true slice of Americana for the United States.

For political candidates, this holiday is big.  And it’s a lot of work.  Organizing parade schedules, floats, volunteers and candy.  Even though Election Day is months away, candidates feel the need to have a good showing in parades on the 4^th of July to build momentum and support for their campaigns. For many, it is their first public outing.  

Some candidates pull flat bed trucks with adults and kids throwing candy, while others elect for a more simple display by riding on the back of a convertible.  Usually big signs are mounted on the sides of vehicles and volunteers will slap stickers on parade watchers as they pass by.

“Summer events give candidates an important opportunity to roll up their sleeves, join the crowd, and meet voters,” says political consultant, Angie Cain. “It’s important for voters to see the candidate working hard and caring enough to attend local parades, Church festivals, and other community events.  While it is not necessary to spend a fortune on campaign “trinkets”, what really matters is that the candidate is there shaking hands, working the crowd and bringing along as many supporters as possible.  This summertime aspect of “retail politicking” is critical to a well-rounded, strong campaign.”

To Walk or Ride?

The big dilemma for candidates however, is whether to walk or ride.  Some believe that if they walk, they show strength and folksiness, while riders can give the impression of being “special”.  Although some candidates have learned that walking in long hot parades can leave you looking less than candidate-fresh.

Florence, Kentucky Mayor Diane Whalen believes that it’s “absolutely necessary to participate in parades and that it’s not so much about being visible as it is about being accessible.  Parents are there with their children and it gives you a chance to hand out a piece of candy and say hello,” added Whalen. 

Mayor Whalen always walks vs. riding in the parades.  “Walking connects you with the people a little more; it brings it to more of a human level—it lets you touch the voters.  It’s ok if you melt a little, just having people out there wearing your shirts and handing out candy gives people an opportunity to see your face.”

The challenge of looking good for women candidates

“Women candidates face special challenges with respect to appearance but should take every opportunity to walk in parades; everybody loves a parade,” said campaign media and speech coach, Christine Jahnke.   “Considering hot summer weather, it’s a real challenge for women candidates to look professional but not over-dressed.  Everybody has to avoid shorts.  What works best is a crisp white linen blouse and khaki slacks or a skirt.  Avoid sunglasses so that you can have good eye contact with the people.  Good comfortable walking shoes are a must, but the appearance of footwear is important.  Avoid orthopedic looking shoes and only wear sneakers if they are crisp and clean.”

And most importantly, said Christine Jahnke, “do not wear sleeveless or short-sleeved tops unless your arms look like Michelle Obama.  Flabby arms waving to a crowd is not the impression a candidate wants to leave.”

Does a bigger float mean more votes?

Candidates can go overboard with their parade demonstrations.  Some candidates will have six or seven vehicles full of volunteers and family members and can overwhelm the parade watchers.  Cars are boring and can clog the slow moving parade routes.  Others have been creative with their giveaways – items like popcorn, ice pops, t-shirts, squirt guns, coolie cups, sparklers and even dog biscuits are tossed out to the crowds. 

Most candidates agree that the parades are so far away from the election that it doesn’t make a whole lot of difference in terms of votes.  But in Cincinnati city council politics, petitions are required to be signed by 500 voters in order for a candidate to get their name on the ballot.  Parades are a great place to obtain the required signatures from registered voters.

Cincinnati City Councilmember and former mayor, Roxanne Qualls will be attending the Northside parade in Cincinnati on July 4^th not to march but to visit with the crowd along the sidelines.  “The Northside parade is a great July 4^th event with an interesting variety of participants that draws huge crowds so I’ll be there to meet people, shake hands and collect signatures for my petition.”