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Candidates' FAQ

Q: If the 2012 primary dates and deadlines are subject to change, how does this affect campaign finance filings with the Texas Ethics Commission (non-federal offices) or the Federal Election Commission (federal offices)?

A. You will need to direct that question to those offices.  We strongly recommend contacting these offices if you have not already. 

Q. May I start collecting signatures for the 2012 primary on your current petition form (if I want to file with a petition instead of a filing fee)?

A. Yes, if you are willing to accept the risk.  Under current law, there is no “first day” to collect signatures for the primary.  (There is a “first day” for independent candidates.)  Therefore, you may start collecting signatures for the primary election if you wish.  However, you are at some risk, because if the legislature changes the form or anything else the signer needs to see, you will have to start over.  Having said that, there is nothing illegal about the activity.  You are just taking a slight risk that your work will not be usable later.  We also recommend that you contact the Texas Ethics Commission (or the FEC for federal offices), especially if you are engaging in financial transactions like paying people to help you collect signatures.   

Q: I understand the forms might change, but I want to look at the current forms. Where can I find them?

A: A short forms index is listed on our website.

Q: I’ve heard the number of presidential electors for Texas is going up in response to the latest U.S. Census.

A: The estimated new number of electors for Texas is 38 (the projected number of 36 representatives, plus two senators).  This number is based on the addition of four representatives for Texas as a result of the 2010 census and reapportionment.

Q. If I want to check out proposed Texas state legislation during the 2011 session, what do I do?

A. First, be aware that the online Texas Election Code is not updated immediately after a session.  In the meantime, you can track legislation by signing up for alerts at the Legislature’s website.  You can also check the Sections Affected page at the Legislative Reference Library.  

Q. How will redistricting affect my office?

A. There is more extensive information at the Texas Legislative Council.

Q. I just want to run for a local city or school district or other office – where is my information? 

A. See the various local government pages at Conducting Your Elections