Danger in Local Politics: Expert Shares Tips for Staying Safe while Campaigning
(Crystal A. Proxmire, April 26, 2023)
Detroit, MI – One might think that the scariest part of running for local office is the thought of public speaking, or maybe raising money. Yet the hard reality for candidates – from national politicians right down to city councils and school boards – is that there are many things that can go wrong when someone puts themselves out there to campaign.
From front porch shootings and violence both at events and when walking alone, to invasive surveillance and stalking, to mystery packages, angry phone calls, uncomfortable confrontations, and even sharp-toothed dogs not kept safely on a leash, those involved in local politics have much to be prepared for.
On April 22, Alex Ellis of Vigilant Consulting, did a training workshop in partnership with Guerrilla Politic, a marketing firm that helps businesses, groups, and candidates get out their messages in a variety of ways. Ellis is a Marine Corps and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran who has taken his military skills to work doing criminal investigation and analysis for state and federal law enforcement agencies. He has a BA in Homeland Security and an MA in Law Enforcement Intelligence and Analysis.
Ellis went over several common scenarios where a small amount of effort can add a lot of safety for would-be officials, volunteers, and staff.
Much of the advice centered on situational awareness – taking the time to look around and being familiar with surroundings. Even if walking into one’s own office or home, Ellis advised “look around… If anything looks different, find out why.”
In situations with gatherings, it’s a good idea to look over the crowd and see if anyone seems like they may be out of place. This isn’t a call to stereotype, rather a time to look for people’s body language, demeanor, and clothing or bags that may seem odd. For example, if someone is wearing a bulky coat, especially in warm weather, it may be reason to be cautious. If someone is carrying a gun, there could be a bulge at their waist or their ankle. And if someone seems particularly nervous, like avoiding conversations and eye contact or fidgeting with their clothes, it could mean they are suspicious.
Being aware of one’s space can also help if there is trouble. Ellis explained that when planning events, the speakers should have an exit strategy, ideally one that is not necessarily the most obvious exit. This makes sense in active shooter situations, but also can help if there is just general disruption or hostility that the speaker may need to step back from. It’s also helpful to know what is outside of buildings. If someone has to exit through a rear door or a window, what will they find once through it?
Surveillance is another increasing hard part of public life. Ellis spoke about ways to test if one is being followed, such as going around a block, using the Michigan lefts to backtrack, or even driving to a police station or a well-lit parking lot.
He also shared that at times someone may sit in a car and watch a house, and people generally aren’t paying attention enough to notice. If someone is in their car for a longer period of time, it is okay to call the police and ask them to check on the person.
Even with situational awareness, there can still be dangerous situations. Preparing mentally can increase one’s odds of survival. “Slow down and breathe,” he said. “Create your escape and be determined.” He explained that sometimes people just give up, but being determined and decisive greatly increases one’s odds of escape.
If you have to fight, he said, aim for the groin, the eyes, the nose, or the throat.
And then there are times when you just have to go through whatever the situation is. “Sometimes you can’t get out of it, but you can be a good witness,” Ellis said. “Focus on things you can’t change, like height, weight, scars.” Remembering clothing can help, but it’s best to remember items that aren’t easily discarded. “People are more likely to change their jacket than their shoes,” he said.
Whether they’re intended to be dangerous or not, dogs can also be a challenge for people out knocking doors. Some tips for dealing with loose dogs are not to run, not to engage in eye contact, and to stand sideways and move slowly away from the dog. Carrying a clipboard also may help as a dog cannot get their jaws around the large flat surface.
The two-hour training provided a plethora of awareness and self-defense techniques. This was the second time Guerrilla Politic held the training, and there could be more in the future.
Adrienne Pickett, Founder and Creative Director at The Guerrilla Politic said she’s observed how safety has become top-of-mind for candidates, volunteers, and even everyday people over the past year. “It doesn’t matter if you’re knocking doors or at the grocery store—we’ve seen how quickly violence can happen or simple conversations can escalate in today’s world. People are asking for tools to help them be prepared to react if they need to, and we’re happy to step up.”
Learn more about The Guerilla Politic at www.theguerrillapolitic.com.
