Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham addresses a LKN Chamber candidate training class

April 19. The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce will hold a candidate training program for people interested in future elected office. The Lake Norman Academy of Political Leadership is an introduction to campaigning for local, county and state office.

The program, which costs $120 to attend, will be held April 29, May 6 and May 20.

Andy Yates, a leading politicial consultant based in Lake Norman, will chair the program.

Andy Yates

Background

The purpose is to assist civic-minded citizens who are considering running for political office to campaign in an ethical and effective manner. It has been held in 2003, 2005, 2013, 2015, 2017 and, most recently, in 2019.

The Lake Norman Chamber is a non-partisan business association that does not endorse or support candidates for office. However, the chamber supports the principles of good government and hopes to increase the number of business-minded elected officials with the skills and political acumen to provide the servant leadership which advances our community and region.

Tillis at Cornelius Town Hall the morning after he won his first race for the US Senate

MFG

US Sen. Thom Tillis, the most famous graduate, used the program to prepare to run for Cornelius Town Board, his elected office.

“The program provided valuable insight into campaigning for public office and proved very helpful developing my message and strategy,” he said.

More info

The $120 program fee includes meals. Applications must be received by Friday, April 28.

Info: lakenormanchamber.org