The position of County Clerk is a nonpartisan office that has very specific elections rules around when candidates appear on the ballot. I know there has been some confusion as to when I will be on the ballot, so let me try to clear any questions up.
When there is only one candidate filed by the filing deadline, which was March 8, 2022, that candidate goes on the ballot in November.
If there are TWO candidates that file, they both advance and appear on the November General Election ballot.
But if there are MORE than two candidates by the filing deadline, there is a run-off election in May where a couple scenarios could occur. You can see the ORS code 249.091 here.
It’s a bit like “Choose Your Own Adventure-Elections Version.”
If more than two candidates had filed to run, we would have voted in May and if one candidate received more than 50% of the vote then they ALONE would be on the ballot in November.
If no one exceeds 50%, the top two highest vote receiving candidates would advance to November.
Here is why my election will be in November and NOT May.
Until Friday, March 4, I was the ONLY candidate who had filed to run for County Clerk. This meant that I alone would be on the November ballot. The incumbent clerk filed to run again two days before the filing deadline which resulted in there being two candidates filed and therefore, both of us will be on the ballot in November.
It feels convoluted but it is my job as clerk and head election official to make sure everyone knows elections processes and has the information needed about voting so you can make informed decisions.
As always, please reach out to me if you have any questions about elections, my candidacy, or how to make your voice heard in our democracy!
Thank you for your engagement and remember, I will be on the ballot NOVEMBER 8, 2022.
Vote Catherine McMullen for Clackamas County Clerk in the November General Election!
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Image text: The County Clerk race advances to the General Election. Save the Date Month: 11, Day: 08, Year: 22. Vote Catherine McMullen on November 8, 2022. Image is in red and white text with a blue tinted natural background.