(an edited version crossposted from PolCampaign)
The countdown for the 2010 elections has already started. If the Congressional Districts aren't soon working on detailed written campaign plans, including district organization and analysis, largely done by volunteers in the absence of a candidate, the district won't be ready by the time they do find their candidate of choice.
Doing the numeric and demographic analysis, as well as district organization, is necessary to create a true foundation for a campaign plan that will gives the new candidate a starting point. Much of the campaign plan will not be finished until the candidate has come forward. Yet the basic work can be completed earlier. It is a complicated process yet absolutely necessary.
The clock is ticking.
Countdown to NJ GOP primary: 125 days
Countdown to VA Dem primary: 132 days
Countdown to Election Day 2009: 279 days
Countdown to Election Day 2010: 643 days
h/t to First Read for the countdown.