Final answer:
The selection that best supports the central idea that it requires significant effort and planning to run for office is 'b) Running for office often requires strategic planning and substantial effort'. Running for office involves intense strategic planning, assembling a capable team, and managing a complex campaign phase to garner support.
Step-by-step explanation:
The selection that best supports the central idea that it takes a lot of effort and planning to successfully run for office is: b) Running for office often requires strategic planning and substantial effort.
Running for office is not merely about meeting the mechanical requirements such as collecting signatures or paying a registration fee; it involves strategic planning and substantial effort. A candidate has to consider numerous factors including state-specific requirements, competitors, family obligations, and the possibility of drawing financial backing. Moreover, for high stakes offices like the Presidency, the process is even more rigorous and demanding. It includes assembling a campaign team, developing a strong campaign strategy, and garnering enough support to get on the ballot or secure a nomination, which often starts years in advance of the actual election. The actual campaign phase requires coordinating volunteer efforts, fundraising, and managing media relationships among a host of other responsibilities.