QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY
ASKED BY CANDIDATES
Candidates running for public office must satisfy many requirements set forth in law
and regulation. Over the years, certain aspects of the nomination process have been
identified as areas where prospective candidates seem to encounter problems. In order to
assist candidates in avoiding these "pitfalls"
the following questions and answers have been prepared.
Is your office open during the lunch hour?
Yes. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays,
and we do remain open between the hours of noon to 1 p.m. On election day we are open from
6:00 a.m. until the last ballot is counted.
What if I change my mind about being a candidate after filing a Declaration of
Candidacy?
Candidates may withdraw their Declaration of Candidacy prior to the final date for
filing. According to Elections Code §10510, "No candidate shall withdraw his or
her declaration of candidacy after 5 p.m. on the 88th day prior to the general
election."
May a second party pick up my Declaration of Candidacy for me?
All forms must be either picked up in person by the candidate or a letter of
specific authorization, signed by the candidate, must be presented by the candidate's
representative.
May a second party file my Declaration of Candidacy or mail them to you?
Election law does not specifically prohibit another person filing a Declaration of
Candidacy for a candidate. However, candidates are urged to file in person. The reasons
are twofold:
The oath or affirmation must be administered by a member of the Elections Department or
a notary. It is easier for a candidate to file the Declaration of Candidacy in person and
have the oath administered at the time the candidate files; and
The signature of the candidate, as well as other data, is required on the Declaration
of Candidacy. If through an oversight the candidate's papers are incomplete, the problem
can be easily rectified when a candidate files in person.
|
