What are the rules for write-in candidates?

In Tennessee, the rules for write-in candidates are very specific and must be followed closely in order for the candidate to be successfully included on the ballot. First, the candidate must file a Declaration of Write-In Candidacy form with the state. This form must be signed by the candidate and can be filed no earlier than 75 days before the election. The form must provide the candidate’s name, address, party affiliation, and office sought. Once the form is received, the election commission will advertise the fact that a write-in candidate is on the ballot. This is done through a notice in a newspaper and a written notice to the candidates opposing the write-in candidate. On the day before the election, the election commission will post a list of all write-in candidates at the poll locations. This list must include the candidate’s name and office sought. On election day, voters will select a write-in candidate by writing the candidate’s name on the ballot and then filling in the oval to the left of the candidate’s name. All write-in votes must be counted, even if the candidate did not file the Declaration of Write-In Candidacy form. If a voter’s signature does not match the signature on the voter registration form, the vote is considered an invalid write-in vote and is not counted. In order to be successful, write-in candidates must adhere to all of the rules and regulations set forth by the election commission. By following the process, the candidate’s name can be included on the ballot and their chances of winning the election can be increased.

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What are the rules for write-in candidates?

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