This book was written to encourage nurses to become involved in the political process- by running for office, seeking appointments, or becoming active on some level in local government. The authors interviewed 46 nurses who hold or have run for public office- from Members of Congress to local aldermen. Theses nurses share their experiences on everything from getting informed on the issues, getting involved in a political party, presenting the right image, to fundraising. A chapter on nurses who have made use of the public arena in the past includes figures such as Lillian Wald, Lavinia Dock, and Margaret Sanger. Nurses have inside knowledge of health issues and the trust of the public. Here is a handbook that can help nurses realize their leadership potential.