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Step 1
Research ballot access. Ballot access is the set of rules that regulates which candidates or political parties will appear on voters' ballots. These rules differ from state to state and tend to become troublesome when the issue is a national one and the campaign doesn't have the support of one of the major political parties.
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Step 2
Visit your secretary of state's website. Locate an election calender, which should highlight all of the important dates ballot access workers need to be aware of, such as certification and signature deadlines. These dates vary from state to state, and knowing them is very important when planning your campaign and petition goals.
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Step 3
Obtain a Candidate Requirement Guide from your secretary of state. Read and make sure you understand the barriers that ballot access presents. Knowing what issues are unique to your state is essential when petitioning for ballot access for a particular candidate or issue. Rules such as in-state residency requirements for petition circulators and regulations that require the separation of signatures based on county are some examples of overlooked but critical barriers in petitioning.
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Step 4
Join a ballot access group such as Ballot Access News. This will afford you access to the latest information and developments concerning ballot access issues as well as a network of supporters and activists with experience and knowledge in the field.
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Step 5
Most campaigns employ ballot access activists and lawyers who specialize in ballot access laws and regulations. Any questions about ballot access should be directed to these experts.
