Ballot Access
Seven thousand petition signatures to create a new political party and nominate a slate of candidates for office. Yet, even if a new or minor party becomes formally organized, it is difficult for their candidates to be listed on the election ballot for certain offices. Primary election rules require a prospective candidate to not only win the plurality, but for a minimum number of voters to choose to vote in that party's primary.
Independent candidates need a thousand signatures for a statewide office, four thousand for the presidency or 300 for a state legislative office. The independent nominating petition process does not allow for candidates to appear on the ballot with a political party designation, in lieu of independent, except for presidential elections.
Read more about this topic: Electoral Reform In North Dakota
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