Interview With Deb Dapson: Newly Elected to Rio Rancho City Council
June Anglin had the pleasure of sitting down with newly elected City Councilor Deborah Dapson to ask her about her recent elections. Yes, elections with an “s”—Deb won a runoff too.
- To what do you attribute your recent victories?
Knocking on doors. I canvassed from August 2023 to election day. I also did eight mailers (four in the runoff), yard and street signs, robocalls, and texts. My campaign manager Chris Daul helped me plan and execute these efforts.
- Of all your strategies, which do you believe were MOST effective?
Again, knocking on doors. There is no substitute for meeting people and talking to them. Some people would say, “I am a Democrat, but I don’t want to vote.” When I asked them why, they said they were disgusted with the whole thing. Once we were talking, I could tell them that they could not fix anything with their head in the sand, and I would ask for their vote.
- What approaches did you use to raise campaign funds?
I started by calling people. I called family, friends, fellow Kiwanis members. I held two fundraisers. I asked for donations at First Fridays, Second Saturdays, and coffee klatches. I raised about $12,000, which covered my campaign expenses. I was able to do my own graphics designs and website set-up, which helped. Asking for funds is not always easy, but it is essential. (More on fundraising below.)
- Did you do anything differently in the runoff versus the initial campaign?
In the original campaign, I took Sundays off. In the runoff, I did not. Also in the runoff, for the days I could not canvass, I asked others to canvass for me. The others often heard from residents, “Yes! I talked to her!” That was gratifying.
- What advice do you have for other candidates running for office in Sandoval County?
First and foremost, do not be afraid to ask for money. Remember always that you are offering others the opportunity to be a part of something that makes a difference. Keep this in your mind. You are not only making a request, you are also extending an invitation. It is helpful to schedule a regular time (Thursday afternoons, for example) for fundraising. That way, it does not get put off into an indefinite future.
It is also helpful to ask for help, such as asking for someone to drive or accompany you while you canvass. Some days, your energy may be low, but when that other person shows up and you get started, your energy climbs.
Finally, a candidate should participate in civic affairs. Have a booth at the Harvest Festival and participate in other local events. Get your name out there and give away tchotchkes. That way, you create good feelings. You get to know people and people get to know you.
CONGRATULATIONS, City Councilor DEB DAPSON!
Rio Rancho City Hall