The important thing is that you answered he call! What state / county are you in?

You point out a couple of very important aspects of things to do when running for office. I often say that "Rule 1" of running for office is MAKE FRIENDS. Talk to people who have run before. Talk to the County Board of Elections Commissioner (not sure what state you are in but there is someone who holds this position everywhere, I believe) Talk to the local head of the political party you're hoping to be on the ballot. Talk to local union leaders. Talk to your partner. And a core group of friends who you might consider as prospects to help. And then, work with them to research the regs for running your jurisdiction.

Having said that, the biggest problem I think is that the Democrats have no infrastructure for helping with all this. A tiny investment on the part of state and local committees in educating potential candidates could make the difference between the experience being a food one ... or drudgery.

Thanks for running and thanks for the response!