Nomination Papers

Nomination papers are official documents used in the process of running for an elected office. They are submitted by a candidate to formally declare their intent to run and often include signatures from supporters to demonstrate a minimum level of support. These papers serve as a way to place the candidate’s name on the ballot for the upcoming election.

The specific requirements for nomination papers vary depending on the office and jurisdiction, but typically include:

• A statement of the candidate’s intention to run.
• Signatures from registered voters in the relevant district (often a minimum number).
• Other forms or declarations required by local or state election authorities.

Nomination papers are an essential part of the electoral process for candidates seeking to stand in public elections.

For Example

In California, the laws governing nomination papers for candidates seeking elected office are set by the California Elections Code. Here are the key requirements:

1. Filing Nomination Papers:
   • Candidates must file nomination papers with the County Elections Office (for local offices) or the California Secretary of State (for state offices).
   • The papers must be filed during the designated filing period, which typically occurs several months before the election.
2. Signatures:
   • State Offices (e.g., Governor, State Senate, State Assembly): A candidate must submit a specific number of signatures from registered voters in their district or region. The exact number varies based on the office being sought. For example, for State Assembly, a candidate typically needs 40 signatures from registered voters in the district.
   • Local Offices (e.g., mayor, city council): The number of signatures required depends on the office and the population of the jurisdiction. Local governments may set their own rules, but it is generally a percentage of the district’s registered voters.
3. Nomination Fees:
   • In some cases, candidates may also be required to pay a filing fee as part of the nomination process. This fee is usually a percentage of the office’s annual salary.
   • In lieu of a filing fee, candidates can often collect additional signatures to waive the fee.
4. Party Affiliation:
   • If running for a partisan office, candidates may also be required to indicate their political party affiliation, though some offices (e.g., nonpartisan city council) do not require this.
5. Other Requirements:
   • Candidates must also meet the basic eligibility requirements, such as age, residency, and voter registration status.
   • Additional documents, such as a statement of economic interest (Form 700), may be required for certain offices.

Candidates must carefully review the requirements for their specific office and jurisdiction to ensure they meet all the legal criteria for submitting nomination papers.

Here’s a checklist to help avoid common mistakes when filing nomination papers for an election in California:

Nomination Papers Checklist:

1. Review Eligibility Requirements:
   • Ensure you meet all basic eligibility requirements (age, residency, voter registration) for the office you’re running for.
   • Confirm whether the office is partisan or nonpartisan.
2. Check Filing Dates:
   • Verify the official filing period for your election (start and end dates).
   • Be aware of any deadlines for submitting nomination papers and related documents.
3. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Complete the Nomination Papers form.
   • If applicable, fill out other required forms (e.g., Statement of Economic Interest, Form 700).
   • Make sure you have all necessary personal information and supporting documents ready.
4. Gather Signatures:
   • Collect the required number of signatures from registered voters in your district or region.
     • For State Assembly: Typically, 40 signatures are needed.
     • For State Senate: Check the specific number based on your district.
     • For local offices: Check local requirements based on population and office type.
   • Ensure signatures are valid (e.g., from registered voters in the correct district, correctly formatted).
5. Check Party Affiliation (if applicable):
   • Indicate your party affiliation (if running for a partisan office), or confirm if your office does not require it (e.g., nonpartisan races like city council).
6. Pay Filing Fee (if applicable):
   • Check if a filing fee is required (typically a percentage of the office’s annual salary).
   • If you cannot pay the fee, gather additional signatures to waive the filing fee.
7. File Nomination Papers on Time:
   • Submit your completed nomination papers during the official filing period.
   • Double-check that you’ve signed and dated all necessary forms.
   • Ensure that all supporting documents are included (signatures, payment or waiver, party affiliation, etc.).
8. Confirm with Election Authorities:
   • After filing, confirm with the County Elections Office or Secretary of State that your nomination papers were accepted and are in good standing.
   • Request confirmation of your name appearing on the ballot once the review process is complete.

By following this checklist, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your candidacy is properly submitted and eligible for inclusion in the election.