Why do my candidates not want to put the word 'Democrat' on their signs?

[El Supremo]

I live in a heavily Republican area. For many years the large majority of Democratic candidates for state office haven't identified what party they belong to either on their yard signs or letterheads. The "experienced people at headquarters" recommend that approach.

I can think of all sorts of reasons why they should announce right up front that they are Democrats. But whether incumbent or newcomer, they follow the recommendation.

The affiliations in my area are about 40% Republican, 30% Independent and 30% Democrat.

Can anyone give me any reason why the unwritten rule says that you should not advertise that you are a Democrat seeking office?

[Misunderestimator]

1. It seems to be the same rule that republicans use...

I get very frustrated when I see all these signs here for candidates without knowing what party they represent. A short search online, and I find out they are ALL republicans. Aside from my yard sign, I haven't seen anything for a democrat here. :cry:

[Crunchy Frog]

2. Because being a Democrat

is too left wing for the Conservative state of Colorado, and they might not vote for someone if they know they're a Democrat?

After all, we have to be moderate and appeal to the center.

[El Supremo]

3. They're gonna know you're a Dem when they get in the polling booth.

Then they made feel had.

But maybe this strategy is just to get a foot in the door to be able to talk to voters who would normally shut the door right in a Democrat's face? If so, I still think it's bad. Because once you get in the door and then they find out - swhoosh! You are on your keester in the sidewalk.

[AndyTiedye]

4. Possibly because Anyone Who Ran Openly as a Democrat Was Defeated

Certainly they would play up the party affiliation if it would help their candidacy.

With only 30% Democrats and 70% who think "Democrat" is a dirty word,
how is a Democrat to get elected?

[CO Liberal]

5. Ben Nightmare Campbell's Signs and Ads....

...never indicated that he was a RepubliKKKan.