Running for elected office for the first time is an exciting and challenging journey. Whether you’re aiming for a school board, city council, or a state legislative seat, you’re stepping into a world filled with regulations, deadlines, and essential processes that will shape your campaign. One of your most important resources in this journey is your local County Registrar of Voters.
However, here’s the reality: county employees at the Registrar’s office are trained to be neutral and cautious. They are not there to offer you free election advice, and they will always err on the side of caution to avoid any legal issues. That means if you don’t ask the right questions, you might miss critical information that could make or break your candidacy.
Why You Need to Ask Questions (Lots of Them!)
The rules for running for office are complicated, and every county has specific procedures you must follow. If you assume that the system will guide you through it, you’re already at a disadvantage. Your job as a candidate is to proactively seek out the information you need. Here’s why asking questions is essential:
- Avoid Costly Mistakes – Missing a filing deadline, filling out forms incorrectly, or misunderstanding campaign finance rules can lead to disqualification or fines.
- Know Your Rights and Responsibilities – Just because something isn’t offered upfront doesn’t mean it’s not available to you. Ask about ballot designations, statement fees, and election observer rules.
- Stay Ahead of Deadlines – Some counties don’t send reminders about filing deadlines or required paperwork. Keep a calendar and confirm every deadline.
- Understand Ballot Rules – Your name, party affiliation (if applicable), and candidate statement must meet specific criteria. Ask for sample ballots and previous candidate guides.
- Clarify Signature and Filing Requirements – If you need nomination signatures, ask about the process for gathering and submitting them. Mistakes here can disqualify you from the ballot.
- Get Campaign Finance Right – Campaign finance laws vary by jurisdiction, and mistakes can lead to hefty penalties. Ask about contribution limits, reporting deadlines, and compliance rules.
What to Ask at Your County Registrar of Voters Office
Here are some key questions every first-time candidate should ask:
- What are the deadlines for filing nomination papers and candidate statements?
- What forms are required to officially become a candidate?
- How do I verify my voter registration status and eligibility to run?
- Are there any fees associated with filing for candidacy?
- What are the rules regarding campaign finance reporting?
- How do I obtain voter registration data for outreach?
- What are the requirements for getting a candidate statement printed in the voter guide?
- Are there any campaign signage regulations I should be aware of?
- How do I challenge a ballot designation if I believe another candidate’s is misleading?
- Can I observe the vote-counting process on Election Day?
The Takeaway: Be Proactive and Informed
Your local County Registrar of Voters is a key resource, but they are not responsible for ensuring you meet every requirement—they simply enforce the rules. It is up to YOU to take charge of your campaign, ask as many questions as possible, and make sure you understand every detail.
Don’t let cautionary or partisan silence from election officials be an obstacle. Show up prepared, ask your questions, take notes, and double-check everything. Knowledge is power, and in politics, being well-informed is half the battle.
You have a legal right to ask questions and demand politely and professionally an answer to your election related questions.
If they the county registrar refers you to a website or PDF, then you are talking to the wrong person. Request a verbal or email to your answers as soon as possible. Delaying tactics is one of the most common tactics in politics to confuse, dissuade, and hinder young and new candidates from running for elected office!
If you’re serious about winning, start by mastering the election process. Your campaign—and your future voters—will thank you for it!