This week on The Open Door, Jim Hanink, Mario Ramos-Reyes, and Christopher Zehnder explore the trials, tribulations, and even triumphs of running for public office. What should anyone who shares the ideals of the American Solidarity Party expect in today's political contests? Our special guest is Ed Rushman, a candidate in California's 46th congressional district. We'll discuss the following questions, and we invite listeners to suggest others.

1. You've run for office before. What lessons do you bring with you from your first campaign?

2. Could you explain some of the barriers to entering a congressional race?

3. How is Facebook a help and a hindrance?

4. What are the demographics of those whose support you hope to gain?

5. You are competing with a Republican "placeholder candidate." How did this come about?

6. What can you tell us about AB5? About PROact?

7. How much money do you expect to spend on your campaign? If you could double that amount, what would it mean for your efforts?

8. If you win, what's at the top of your agenda?

9. If you lose, what do you hope to have taught voters?

10. Chesterton famously says that if we don't talk about faith or politics we won't have much to say. Do you agree?