The models of Hamilton County are starting to make our reps in the state legislature and in Congress quite nervous. Our population, trending more educated and racially diverse than in the past, is looking more and more like a place that traditionally votes for Democrats.

What began as my first experience with phone banking quickly became a reminder of how deeply Hoosiers care about fair maps. In a virtual room of volunteers, I saw how one conversation at a time can push back against gerrymandering.

This will be the start of an ongoing series about what it really looks like to run for local office: from exploring the idea, to getting past the doubts, to taking concrete steps toward getting your name on the ballot. Together, we’ll break down the process, share local stories, and show that you have what it takes to lead.