In the elections of November 1996 and November 1997, the residents of St. Peter, Minnesota, had the opportunity to consider two political newcomers. These candidates-Ruth Johnson and Dan Stratton-had much in common beyond the fact that neither had run previously for elected office. Both candidates had a strong and long-standing interest in politics and public affairs. Both sought prestige positions-Johnson wanted the vacant state legislative seat, while Stratton challenged for mayor of St. Peter. Both were relatively unknown to the general public. Finally, both candidates had connections to the local liberal arts college; Johnson was an alumnus serving in administration, and Stratton was a third-year student involved in numerous campus activities.