How to Recall a State Representative

A state representative is put into office by voters from his home state. When those voters are unhappy with their representative's performance, they may call for a recall. It's a long and difficult process and there are certain steps that need to be followed to recall a state representative.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Consider the state you live in. Only 18 states allow their residents to recall their state official. If you live in one of these states, proceed with the recall of your state representative.
2. Decide why you want to recall your state representative. In 7 of the 18 states allowing recall elections, you must meet specific grounds for recall. There is no such requirement in the other 11 states.
3. Start petitioning. You'll need a significant number of signatures to recall your state representative. The number differs by state but is usually a certain percentage of voters in the last election.
4. Know the time limits. You will only have a certain amount of time to circulate your petition—anywhere from 30 to 180 days. Learn the rules in your state and abide by them.
5. Vote in the recall election. If you get enough signatures on your petition, a recall election will be granted. The ballot will ask if you think the state representative should be recalled—vote "yes" here.

Tips & Warnings

• The following are the 18 states where state representatives can be recalled: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington and Wisconsin. The District of Columbia also allows recalls.
• On the ballot of the recall election, some states simply ask if the state representative should be recalled. Others will hold an election during the recall. This fills the seat left open by the state representative who was recalled.
• Part of the recall process is notifying the person being recalled and giving him a chance to respond. This is true of all 18 states although it happens at different times in the process.
• If you think you have grounds for recall don't give up but know the process will be long and difficult. Historically, recalling a state representative has not been very successful.