Look for polls that compare current figures and past ones. The way a candidate runs a campaign can provide clues to how that candidate will perform as a public official, once elected. A contender who runs an open, issues-oriented campaign can be expected to become an accessible, forthright and thoughtful public official. Seeing a candidate at a rally or shaking hands in a parking lot does not tell us much about his or her positions. Does the campaign emphasize media events, where the candidate can only talk on safe, narrow topics.
Voters deserve a broader perspective.
Back candidates you believe in. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions at candidate meetings, at rallies and when a campaign worker rings your doorbell. Be a letter writer. Tell newspapers how you feel about the issues.