skip navigation
MRSC logo

Have a Research Question?

Ask MRSC

Have a Research Question?

Ask MRSC
About Our Blog Our Authors

MRSC Insight Blog


Posts for Running for Office

Running for Local Office? Filing Week Begins May 5

March 10, 2025  by  Linda Gallagher
Category:  Running for Office

In a change from past years, the filing period for anyone wishing to run for local elected office in Washington State is May 5-9. Though this is not the only change impacting local elections, it is one of the more significant. 

Read more

A candidate forum with three candidates and a moderator in front of an audience

Supporting/Opposing Ballot Measures and Candidates

May 20, 2024  by  Steve Gross
Category:  Ballot Measures ,  Running for Office

Election season raises many questions for local government staff and elected officials, especially when it comes to ballot measures and candidates running for office. What are the rules for supporting or opposing an issue or a candidate, and how do these apply?  

Read more

Bundle of mail marked "return to sender"

Residency Requirements for Local Government Officials and Appointees

January 29, 2024  by  Flannary Collins
Category:  County Officials ,  Boards and Commissions ,  Running for Office ,  City and Town Officials ,  Elected and Appointed Officials

Must an elected official, advisory (e.g., volunteer) board member, or city or county administrator reside in the jurisdiction they serve or work for? The answer to this question depends on the position, and in some cases, local policies. 

Read more

Disqualification: What if a Candidate Doesn't Meet the Required Qualifications for Office?

May 22, 2017  by  Paul Sullivan
Category:  Running for Office

To be qualified tor elected office, candidates must satisfy certain legal requirements such as citizenship, residency, and voter registration. But what if they aren't legally qualified, such as a candidate who does not meet residency requirements?

Read more