Definition
It states the target officeholder and follows jurisdiction-specific rules for wording, circulation, signer eligibility, and deadlines.
Political Dictionary
Recall Petition
A recall petition is the formal signature document used to seek a recall election.
Why It Matters
It is the legal gateway to placing a recall question before voters.
How It Works
Organizers file paperwork, collect signatures, and submit them for verification.
History
Recall petitions developed with direct-democracy reforms in states and localities.
Example
A petition must obtain a required percentage of votes cast in a previous election.
Common Misconceptions
- Signing the petition is a vote for removal.
- All signatures are automatically valid.
- The same threshold applies everywhere.
Related Terms
Related Topics
See Also