Why doesn't APA focus on getting planner elected?

Based on another thread about beaten down planners not making a difference, why doesn't the APA focus their efforts in getting planners and planner-friendly people elected? Elected leaders hold the power to make real code change. Staff planners do not.

Why is the system set up to arm a legion of beurocrats who have almost no practical power with theory and data... while essentially ignoring the path that would actually implement that theory and data.

I'm not suggesting planning commission training and publishing a blog about good planning for newly-elected council members. I'm saying actively recruit planners to run for office.