Over the course of a couple of breakfast meetings in Harvard Square, Republican candidate Bob Maginn discussed with me his qualifications and vision for the office of Treasurer. He also articulated his love for Cambridge, his home for the past 20 years. When I spoke to Maginn in the spring, he stressed his business experience as relevant to the office, in contrast to his opponent, a career politician. Whether he pursues politics or business, Maginn's experience running for office has enriched him. The votes have not yet been counted as I write, so I have not asked whether he would do it again.
Campaigns certainly are a learning opportunity.
But they are also hard work, often with little reward. The difficulties of raising the money and taking the time away from one's regular job to tackle an entrenched incumbent explain why over half of the State House seats have not been contested in recent elections. State and federal campaign regulations further discourage candidates, according to Sheinfeld. The remarkable thing is just how open the political process is. Anyone can show up at a campaign and volunteer.