Political Dictionary
An independent candidate runs for office without the nomination of a recognized political party.
Definition
An independent candidate seeks public office without appearing as the nominee of a political party. Independent candidates must meet state or local ballot-access requirements, which may include petitions, filing fees, deadlines, and declarations of candidacy.
Why It Matters
Independent candidates can appeal to voters dissatisfied with party choices, introduce new issues, and affect close races. They often face organizational and fundraising disadvantages.
How It Works
The candidate files required documents, gathers signatures when necessary, qualifies for the ballot, and builds a campaign organization without a party nomination structure.
History
Independent candidacies have been common at local levels and occasionally significant in statewide or presidential elections. Their success varies with electoral rules and political conditions.
Example
A former governor may run for Senate as an independent after declining to enter either major party’s primary.
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