Candidate training services have long been a major part of the campaign industry particularly on the left. But educational services directed exclusively at would-be candidates are not as widespread on the right beyond a small number of groups and what’s offered by state or local party organizations. That’s the niche Morgan Bonwell, a former VP at Iowa-based CampaignHQ, is hoping to fill.
“I saw a need for resources to help first-time candidates run for office as a conservative,” said Bonwell, who’s also worked as a regional field director for the Indiana GOP. “They’re not always sure where to start.”
Bonwell believes she’s launching Right Strategies at an ideal time: Conservatives are feeling inspired by the current environment in DC and like their odds of winning up and down the ballot in November.
Bonwell’s business model is actually a hybrid between giving clients access to pre-recorded training modules, including sections on budgeting and messaging, and providing general consulting services to a select group.
“What I want to do is help candidates in whatever way I can,” she said. “I just want to see so many conservatives win up and down the ballot.”
Bonwell got her start in the industry as a field organizer in Iowa in 2016, but immediately started recording her observations with an eye toward one day launching her own firm. One of the things she noticed about first-time candidates: They almost never stick to the script.
“Candidates who just start out may not know they need to stick to some standard messaging. It’s more than just the issues you want to help with.”
