What is a Write-in Candidate?

A write-in candidate is a person who seeks nomination to office after the official filing deadline for that office has passed.  A write-in candidate's name will not appear on the ballot.  However, once a Declaration of Intent form is filed, a candidate may accumulate valid write-in votes. In order to become a valid write-in candidate, an individual must file a Declaration of Intent with the appropriate filling official by 4 p.m. on the second Friday preceding the election.

In order to become a valid write-in Precinct Delegate candidate, an individual must file a Declaration of Intent by 4 p.m. on the Friday preceding the election with their city or township clerk or at their precinct before the close of polls at 8 p.m on election day.

In the event that a candidate appearing on the ballot dies or is disqualified on or after the Wednesday directly preceding the election the Declaration of Intent is waived. Under these circumstances, all write-in votes cast will be counted.

The Declaration of Intent form is available from the Washtenaw County Clerk's Office.

How do I vote for a write-in?

To vote for a person whose name is not printed on the ballot, write or place the name of that person in the blank space provided and darken the oval. Do not cast a write-in vote for a person whose name is already printed on the ballot for that office.