Dealing with Unopposed Candidates on the Ballot: What to Do if You Don’t Want to Vote for Them

When faced with an unopposed candidate on the ballot, many voters wonder what their options are. Do you leave the line blank? Vote for the unopposed candidate anyway? Or do you write in a name? In this article, we explore these options and provide insight into how votes are counted and the legality of write-in votes.

Understanding Unopposed Candidates

An unopposed candidate is someone who has chosen not to run against any other candidates in an election. This occurs for various reasons, such as there being only one candidate, or no other candidates wishing to run against them. While it might seem desirable to vote for these candidates, there are situations where you might not wish to support them.

Voting for Unopposed Candidates: Not Compulsory

One common question is whether you are legally required to vote for an unopposed candidate. According to most jurisdictions, this is not the case. You have the freedom to skip the line or write in a name if you so choose. Leaving the line blank or writing in a name is perfectly valid as long as it adheres to the rules set by your local election authorities.

The Least Desirable Option: Voting Anyway

While some may suggest voting for the unopposed candidate anyway, this can be considered the least desirable option. It does not align with the principle of voting for candidates who have actually earned your support.

Personal Experience: Writing in a Name

The author has, on occasion, written in their own name as a joke or a way to engage their friends. Sometimes, these names are of friends or even friends of friends. In rare cases, they have been elected through this method, though they were unable to serve due to being out of the state during critical periods.

Engaging Friends for a Write-In Vote

In elections where no candidates are running, writing in the name of a friend can be a fun and engaging way to ensure your vote is counted. If multiple friends agree, it can strengthen the impact of the write-in vote. The author often encourages friends to consider writing in a single friend's name to emphasize their support.

Checking if Your Vote Was Counted

A common concern is whether your vote for a write-in candidate is actually counted. While the author has not seen any records of their write-in votes being counted, there are mechanisms in place to ensure that votes are recorded, even if they are just a single vote. Some jurisdictions list every write-in vote, while others may not.

Legal Action as a Last Resort

If you suspect that your write-in vote has not been counted, you may consider taking legal action. Each state has different laws and regulations regarding write-in votes, so it's important to research your specific local regulations. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in election law can provide you with guidance on how to proceed.

Conclusion

When faced with an unopposed candidate on the ballot, you have the freedom to choose how to handle your vote. If you do not wish to support the unopposed candidate, you have the option to write in a name or leave the line blank. The key is to stay informed and engaged in the electoral process. By understanding your rights and the mechanics of voting, you can ensure that your voice is heard.