Research guide

How to research a political party organization.

A directory can organize information, but current political and election details should be checked against primary sources.

1. Identify the organization

Distinguish the national party, state party, local committee, campaign committee and other affiliated organizations.

2. Check official documents

Use charters, bylaws, official leadership pages and state-party listings to establish organizational facts.

3. Check the time period

Leadership and organizational roles are time-sensitive. Record the publication or update date when researching.

4. Verify election information

For registration, polling places, deadlines and voting procedures, use the appropriate state or local election authority.