Cicero's Advice To The Candidates (ca. 64 BC)

[brooklynite]

Some advice is timeless...

"Make sure you have the backing of your family and friends."
"Surround yourself with the right people."
"Call in all favors."
"Build a wide base of support."
"Promise everything to everybody."
"Communication skills are key."
"Don’t leave town."
"Know the weaknesses of your opponents — and exploit them."
"Flatter voters shamelessly."
"Give people hope.”

http://andrewsullivan.thedailybeast.com/2012/09/ciceros-advice-to-the-candidates.html

[bushmeister0]

1. When speaking of "Cicero" one is usually refering to

Marcus Tullius Cicero, Quintus' older brother. Quintus wrote this little book for his brother who was running for Consul in 64. Not that everything he wrote isn't true, of course. It worked for him as Cicero was elected consul for the year 63 B.C.E.

In their time Quintus was know by his praenommen, Quintus, and Cicero was known by his cognommen, Cicero.

[Rowdyboy]

2. At least 10 bonus points in ancient history for catching this!!

And yes, Quintus' advice is pretty much timeless. What an interesting pair of brothers...