Ballot Designation
Candidates may elect to have a ballot designation appear under their name on the ballot. A ballot designation describes that candidate’s principal profession, vocation or occupation. Candidates who choose to have a ballot designation must declare on the Declaration of Candidacy that they request to have a ballot designation and complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet . For offices that are nominated at the primary election and proceed to a run-off at the general election, the candidate’s approved ballot designation shall remain the same for both elections unless the candidate changes the designation at least 98 days (July 30) prior to the general election.
Selecting / Submitting a Ballot Designation
Candidates who choose to have a ballot designation must complete the Ballot Designation Worksheet . The Ballot Designation Worksheet is a form that a candidate uses to propose and justify the use of their chosen ballot designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet must be filed by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024, and cannot be changed by the candidate after that date. • Prior to selecting a ballot designation, candidates should review the ballot designation rules and regulations (see section 2). • For federal and state offices, the Secretary of State will review the completed Ballot Designation Worksheet and decide if the candidate’s proposed ballot designation is acceptable for printing on the ballot. • For city offices, the City Clerk will review the completed Ballot Designation Worksheet and decide if the candidate’s proposed ballot designation is acceptable for printing on the ballot. • For County, school district, and special district offices, the Registrar of Voters staff will work closely with candidates during the filing period to review their proposed ballot designation(s) as well as supporting documentation to ensure compliance with the ballot designation laws and regulations.
Once filed with the Registrar of Voters, the Ballot Designation Worksheet becomes a public record and is available for viewing by the public upon request.
Ballot Designation Rules and Regulations
There are specific laws and regulations that govern whether a ballot designation is acceptable or unacceptable for printing on the ballot. These rules are outlined in California Elections Code §13107, §13107.3, §13107.5 and Title 2 of the California Code of Regulations §20710-20719. The laws and regulations on ballot designations are complex and may be challenging to navigate. The Registrar of Voters recommends that any candidate seeking an interpretation of any statute or regulation cited in this guide consult with an attorney.
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