Have a Say in Who Gets On The Ballot

A guide to making the most of your voice

When the nation feels chaotic, it’s natural to want to take action. But, how do you use your voice for change?

The best way to make a real impact with your voice is to start locally. Think Global, Act Locally.

The first step to local politics is knowing your house district. A house district is a segment of your city. When you know your house district and precinct number you can find out your caucus site.

Go here to find your district info

What is caucus?

Caucus is a meeting at which local members meet with their precinct members of a political party register their preference among candidates running for office or select delegates to attend a convention.

It’s the first step in putting a candidate on the ballot.

By volunteering to delegate for a candidate, you can help get their name on the ballot.

What are delegates?

Delegates are people! They are your neighbors who have shown up at caucus and get elected to represent the neighborhood to voice their candidate of choice at assembly. Each neighborhood (precinct) gets a designated number of delegates based on population that will be able to move onto assembly, and then move onto convention.

So, What exactly are the steps to being a Delegate and getting a candidate on the ballot?

Caucus ➡️ Assembly ➡️ Convention

Each level you are given the chance to return to the next level if your candidate secured enough of the vote. If they don’t, you often get the option to delegate for someone who got enough votes so that you can continue participating in the process.

A person must be registered with a political party to participate in their caucus.

Sorry, Unaffiliated!

The truth is, being unaffiliated actually prevents you from participating in any party, and getting someone on the ballot. It’s like stifling your own voice. The only way to have a voice in who gets on the ballot is to participate in caucus. It is the first step to getting a say in the direction a party takes.

To change your registration, Go to the Colorado Secretary of State Website 

Caucus happens every March in even years. Get on our email list so you are notified when caucus sites are chosen. Sign up for emails:

In the meantime, if you are looking for community meetings, be sure to check our Event Calendar.

Politics can be complicated—these rules and processes have been in place for centuries. Remember, many of us learn as we go. The important thing is to take that first step.