What are the rules for write-in candidates?

In South Dakota, candidates can be written in on ballots for any office in any election. The only requirement for write-in candidates is that they must register with the Secretary of State in order to have their name placed on the ballot. In order to be eligible, the candidate must submit a signed certificate of nomination, which states that the individual is a registered voter of the State of South Dakota. The certificate must also include a statement that the individual is running for the office in question and the county or unit of local government in which he or she is running. The names of write-in candidates must be printed on the ballot in the same manner as candidates of recognized political parties. The ballots must be marked clearly, and the name of the write-in candidate must be written legibly and not blocked or obscured by marks that could obscure the identity of the candidate. Write-in candidacies are subject to the same filing period and campaign contribution limits that apply to candidates of recognized political parties. A write-in candidate need not file for the office in order to qualify for election, but may do so if desired. However, write-in candidates are required to file the Statement of Economic Interests form with the Secretary of State if they have raised or spent more than $500 in their campaign. Write-in candidates must adhere to all laws and regulations of the State of South Dakota, including those pertaining to campaign finance disclosure and reporting, and ethical conduct in elections. They must also abide by all statutory time limits and requirements for filing election materials. Write-in candidacies are subject to vote recanvassing procedures.

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