Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Write in votes: Snoopy for Sheriff?

As election results come in, all eyes are typically on the candidates, but you can't help but notice the number of 'write ins' at the bottom of the list.

Who were they? Inquiring minds want to know.

We could assume that some legitimate names were jotted down in good faith. After all, it's your right to vote your conscience. 

By contrast, why wouldn't Yosemite Sam make a good sheriff? Maybe Bugs Bunny for Treasurer?

Problem is, it's a wasted vote. 

Mid America Live went to the country clerk's office to get this official quote:


"The only write-ins that are tallied are the ones that have filed a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate. In smaller elections if no one files for an office that is up for election those written in will count also. Amusing names written this election are Bob Dole for Sheriff, Donald Duck for Assessor and Treasurer, and Snoopy for Public Administrator."

So unless you know for a fact that Elmer Fudd has been in to sign up, you might save your vote for someone who is really running for office.

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