What are the rules regarding write-in candidates?
In Minnesota, the rules for write-in candidates vary depending on the type of election. In a Primary Election, write-in candidates may run for the offices of President, US Senator, US Representative, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, State Senator, and State Representative. To be valid write-in candidates, these individuals must have filed a “Declaration of Write-in Candidacy” with the county auditor in the county where he or she resides no later than 15 days before the election. In a General Election, write-in candidates may run for the offices of President, US Senator, US Representative, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, State Senator, State Representative, County Commissioner, County Auditor, County Attorney, Sheriff, and County Treasurer. To be valid write-in candidates, these individuals must have filed a “Declaration of Write-in Candidacy” with the county auditor in the county where he or she resides no later than 15 days before the election. In addition, write-in candidates must be eligible to hold the office for which they are running and must meet any other requirements of the office, such as age limits, residency requirements, and party affiliation. Each write-in candidate’s name must be spelled correctly on the ballot and must be composed of two or more letters. Write-in candidates are not allowed for all offices such as judicial offices, School Board, and Township offices.
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