Running Early, Running Smart: Kate Cadigan on Winning a First Campaign

In this episode of The Honourable & the Hack, the hosts sit down with Kate Cadigan, the youngest person ever elected to St. John’s City Council.Kate shares what motivated her to enter municipal politics, why she began organizing her campaign more than a year before election day, and how preparation, structure, and the right people helped turn a first-time run into a win.The conversation explores:What prompted Kate to run for city councilHow her campaign was planned, organized, and managedThe role of mentors, advisors, and campaign leadershipEarly impressions of City Hall and how council actually worksWhat surprised her most after getting electedLessons for anyone—especially younger candidates—thinking about runningIt’s a candid discussion about discipline, credibility, and learning quickly once the job begins—without political talking points or spin.