What to Do After Winning or Losing an Election

The end of an election cycle comes with mixed emotions. 

Winners and their supporters are likely excited for a new beginning. For those who lost their bid for office, the post-election period will be a time of reflection, reassessment, and even grief. 

Whatever your electoral outcome, some things need to be taken care of before you can move on to the next phase of your career as a public servant. 

Elections are high-stakes affairs filled with excitement, hard work, and emotional investment. Whether you’re celebrating a win or processing a loss, knowing your next steps is essential. Our goal is to offer some practical advice for state and local candidates to navigate the aftermath of the election, plan their next move, and stay engaged as civic leaders.

After the Election: Tying Up Loose Ends

Win or lose, there are a few housekeeping details that need to be managed before you officially close down your political campaign. Many of these are legal requirements related to the disbursement of unspent campaign funds and other assets. 

The Federal Election Commission (FEC) has very detailed directives regarding campaign closure. States may have additional requirements for political campaigns. For example, campaign statements and reports must still be filed until your election committee is officially terminated in California.  

Excess campaign funds must first be used to pay off any debts incurred during the campaign. Once that is accomplished, candidates have some discretion as to how to disperse the remainder of campaign funds and other assets, such as office equipment.

Under no circumstances can these funds/assets be kept or used for the personal benefit of the candidates, their family members, or others associated with the campaign. 

Leftover money can be returned to individual donors, and up to $2,000 can be donated to a federal candidate. Disbursement of funds to state or local candidates is determined by the laws in your state or locality. Campaign finance laws also allow unlimited transfers of funds to federal, state, or local party committees. 

Candidates also have the option of creating a leadership PAC with leftover campaign funds. They can also be transferred to a newly formed campaign committee for the same candidate in a future election, but this can only be done once the current committee is terminated and a new one formed. 

The transfer of campaign funds to a new campaign for local offices is regulated by the state or locality. For example, Washington state only allows this if the candidate will be running for the same office in the next election or with the permission of donors if a different office is sought. In California, terminating one campaign and filing an intent to run in the next election must be done within 90 days after the final campaign reporting period for the current campaign.  

In any case, all of this must be accomplished after the political campaign is officially terminated, which can only happen when:

• All required termination documents are filed

• There is a $0 balance on your final campaign statement

• You do not anticipate any refund of fees paid by committees, further donations, or expenditures

Now that your political campaign has officially ended and legal matters are managed, here’s some practical advice for what else you should do after your election is over, whether you were victorious or not. 

What to Do After Winning an Election

Once the initial excitement of election night wears off, it’s time to breathe and then sit down to take care of important details before you begin your term. 

This transition period is about more than moving into a new office. It’s also about solidifying the relationships that helped get you there and unifying your constituency, whether they supported your candidacy or not.  

Step #1: Thanking Your Constituents

The first step for any winning candidate is to express your gratitude. Public service begins with recognizing the support of the community that elected you. 

Consider hosting a thank-you event or sending personal notes to key supporters and volunteers. A genuine show of appreciation reinforces trust and strengthens relationships with your constituents.

Use social media to share your thanks, emphasizing that you’re committed to serving everyone in your jurisdiction, and not just those who voted for you. Acknowledging the effort and time that your campaign team and volunteers contributed can solidify the sense of unity and purpose moving forward.

Step #2: Reflecting on a Successful Campaign

Winning an election is more than just a personal victory; it’s an opportunity to learn. 

Analyze what strategies worked well in your campaign and what could be improved. This reflection will help inform your approach during your term in office and future political campaigns. Review data from your voter outreach efforts, debate performances, and engagement with local media to understand what resonated most with the public.

This period of reflection also helps reinforce your skills in civic leadership, laying the groundwork for more effective governance.

Step #3: Preparing for the Transition to Public Office

One question you might have after winning an election is, “When is inauguration day?” 

Preparation for public office starts immediately after the election. However, inauguration day — the day you officially take office — is typically set a few weeks to months after election day, depending on your locality. 

At the national level, the day newly elected or re-elected candidates are sworn in occurs on different days. For example, the president is inaugurated on January 20 in the new year after the general election. However, the 119th Congress will convene for the first time on January 3, 2025.

Inauguration or transition dates for state and local candidates vary widely depending on the laws and procedures specific to each state or locality. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with local government processes, meet with current officials, and start planning your initial policy moves.

Here’s an overview of when these transitions typically occur:

1. State Governors: Most U.S. governors are inaugurated in early January following the November election, but the exact date can differ by state. For example, in New York, the governor typically takes office on January 1, while in California, the date might be the first Monday after January 1.

2. State Legislators: In many states, newly elected state senators and representatives are sworn in at the beginning of their legislative session, which often starts in early January. Specific dates are usually set by state constitutions or statutes.

3. Local Government Officials: For local offices, the timeline for inauguration day can vary greatly. In many cities, newly elected officials take office in early January or within a month of the election. However, some municipalities might have their inauguration or swearing-in ceremonies scheduled later, such as during the first city council meeting of the new year or on another date shortly after the election results are certified.

4. County Officials: County-level positions often follow state guidance, but they can also be subject to local rules. Like other local officials, many county officers are inaugurated or sworn in by early January, but some may take office as soon as the election results are certified.

For specific dates, it’s best to check your state or local election office's website, where they often post information about election timelines, transition periods, and when officials assume office. 

Transition smoothly by forming a capable team that can assist in managing your schedule, policy research, and communications. Prioritize setting up constituent services so your office can respond promptly to local concerns once you’re sworn in. There are federal and state guidelines for constituent services that can be used by local office holders if there is not a system yet in place in your area.

Winning candidates can also engage in workshops or onboarding programs if available to new officeholders. Understanding the rhythm of your new responsibilities early on will make a significant difference.

What to Do After Losing an Election

The first thing to remember after losing an election is that you’re not alone. 

The majority of candidates aren't going to win. However, many bounce back to realize a successful career as public servants, whether in or outside of politics. 

Take a day or two to shake it off and engage in non-campaign-related activities, spend time with family and friends, and regroup. Then, you’re ready to end your campaign the right way before preparing for whatever the future holds.

Step #1: Thanking Your Supporters

Even if you didn’t win your election, it’s vital to show gratitude to those who supported you throughout the election cycle. 

This should involve more than just a text or email. Your supporters invested their time, resources, and energy into your vision. A sincere thank-you note or post-election gathering can go a long way in maintaining those relationships. Remember, a gracious candidate, win or lose, earns respect and fosters future opportunities.

Your supporters may have chosen you because they believe in the ideas you championed. Let them know that the fight for those causes doesn’t end with the election; it’s just entering a new phase.

Step #2: Reflecting on a Hard-Fought Campaign

Reflection is just as crucial for candidates who don’t secure a win. 

Analyze your campaign with an open mind: What strategies worked well? Where did you face challenges? Reach out to political campaign staff and volunteers for their insights. This honest assessment can offer valuable lessons for future civic engagement, whether or not you plan to run for office again.

Some suggest a formal debriefing period that includes your core campaign staff a week or two after the election. This is not a time for blame, but for honest dialogue and an opportunity to learn.

Take time to review voter turnout, feedback, and campaign metrics. Understanding the data will help you identify any gaps or missteps. Perhaps there were issues with messaging, targeting, or budget allocation. These insights are priceless for anyone considering another run for office or supporting future candidates.

Step #3: Deciding Whether to Run for Office Again

Losing an election is not the end of the road for civic-minded individuals. 

Some of the most impactful leaders in history have faced electoral defeats before achieving success. Take time to decide whether running for office again aligns with your personal and professional goals. If you choose to run again, start planning early. 

The question of, “When is the next election?” should be on your mind as you consider your election timeline. Although it can seem like the political campaign season never ends, elections usually kick off in earnest during the spring before an election. 

The election timeline for various offices is:

• 4 years, for presidential elections and state senate seats

• 1-4 years, for mayoral races, depending on city ordinances

• 2 years, for state and national house seats

• 2-4 years, for city councils

• 6 years, for national senate seats

That leaves time to forge relationships, build coalitions, and increase name recognition before the next campaign. 

Even if you decide not to run for office again, there are numerous ways to contribute to local government and stay active in your community. Consider volunteering for local boards, engaging in advocacy, or volunteering for other political candidates who share your vision. Civic leadership comes in many forms, and your experience as a candidate is an invaluable asset to any community effort.

Support for Every Stage of Your Campaign Journey

Whether you’re celebrating a victory or learning from a defeat, resources and support are available to help guide your next steps. Join local political groups, attend workshops, and connect with mentors. These activities can provide valuable insights into effective governance or help you devise strategies for future campaigns.

If you’re a winning candidate preparing for your term, consult with past officeholders to gain wisdom and perspective on the responsibilities you’re about to assume. For those who didn’t win, look for ways to build on the momentum you’ve created. Being involved with your local government through civic committees or advisory roles can continue your journey of civic leadership. 

Support, tools, and resources provided by GoodParty.org can help transform your next political campaign into a success story.