What are the rules regarding write-in candidates?

In Delaware, write-in candidates are required to file a declaration of write-in candidacy. This filing must be done with the Election Commissioner no later than the day before the election. The writing-in candidate must also have their name printed on the back of the marked write-in ballot for their vote to be counted. Furthermore, each write-in candidate must receive at least two votes in order for the vote to be counted. Additionally, no write-in candidate may appear anywhere on the ballot including as a write-in candidate or a non-write-in candidate. To ensure that write-in votes for candidates are counted correctly, Delaware requires that the polls be supervised by a person appointed by the Election Commissioner. The supervisor of each precinct must review all write-in ballots to ensure that the name of the candidate is clearly printed and that the two votes required for a valid write-in vote are present. Finally, Delaware has a unique rule regarding write-in candidates. The law states that if a write-in candidate receives the greatest number of votes in a race, they must win the election provided that they meet all of the other requirements associated with a valid write-in candidacy. This rule ensures that no write-in votes are discounted due to lack of name recognition.

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