Political Involvement

In an era of term limits, many new legislators are elected every other year. Long-term relationships with legislators are a thing of the past. Candidates now often come from city councils, county governments, and the private sector. The nature of campaigns has changed. Knowing elected officials at the local level is very important, and getting to know the candidates before they become a part of the Sacramento landscape is critical.

CalDPAC is the political action committee representing dentists in California. Your contribution allows CalDPAC to be in the company of the largest contributors to political campaigns, along with teachers, physicians, attorneys, insurance companies, law enforcement, and labor unions. In the future, whether we have campaign finance reform or not, people will continue to organize to exercise their rights of free speech. If they can only give a limited amount directly to a candidate, they will find another legal way to support a candidate by supporting or opposing them through the use of independent expenditures (made on behalf of a candidate but without his or her knowledge).

First and foremost, you should become a member of CalDPAC. There is strength in numbers. The CalDPAC Board and Executive Committee make recommendations and decisions regarding political contributions and have the opportunity to meet with candidates in their district to determine whether they should receive CalDPAC support. The CalDPAC staff provides ongoing political analysis and additional information on the candidates’ viability and chances of success.

Once a candidate has been chosen by CalDPAC, there are many ways to provide support:

  • Volunteer – Work at campaign headquarters, answer phones, stuff envelopes, walk precincts, volunteer on election day.
  • Make in-kind contributions – Donate office space, computers, postage, copying, or make your office available after hours for telephone banks.
  • Send cards and letters of support to your patients, business associates, family, friends, and neighbors.
  • Make contributions – Attend local fundraising events.
  • Raise money – Reach out to your community asking them for financial support for the candidate.
  • Hold a fundraiser. CalDPAC has a brochure on how to hold an event for a candidate.
  • Be aware of CalDPAC’s matching funds policy (handout available).