Write-In candidates – the process of candidates qualifying, voting for them

By SUSAN SHARP

CAMPBELL COUNTY, TN. (WLAF)- For the first time in several years, Campbell County has seen two candidates launch write-in campaigns for county commission and school board district seats.

This has left voters questioning how to vote for write-in candidates.

HOW TO VOTE FOR A WRITE-IN CANDIDATE

Once in the voting booth, voters will see boxes on the screen that allow them to click the box next to the ‘write in’ option. When the box is checked a keyboard will appear. The name of the write-in candidate can then be typed, according to the election commission. This puts the name on a paper ballot where it can be confirmed as a qualified name and can be counted. The election commission has an approved list of variations on the candidate’s name to ensure a vote is counted.

WRITE-IN PROCESS FOR A CANDIDATE

For those who chose to launch a write-in campaign, the deadline was March 16. If a candidate opted to declare a political party, their name will be on the May Primary Ballot. However, a candidate who declared as an independent will not see their name on the ballot until the August General Election.

In order for a candidate, who declared a party affiliation and will appear on the May ballot, they must receive five percent of votes based on the total number of registered, active voters in their district, state law says. For example, in an unopposed district race if a district had 1,000 registered, active voters the candidate would need to receive 50 votes to secure a spot on the  August ballot.

When it comes to the August ballot, standard rules apply- whoever gets the most votes wins. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED 4/28/2026- 6AM)