OUR SUCCESS IN MAINE
In 2023, we helped pass real ballot access reform in Maine. LD 769 cut the requirement for minor party recognition from 10,000 voters to 5,000 and created a legislative blueprint other states can follow to expand voter choice.
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The Current System
Ballot Access Laws Are Blocking Competition
Across the country, ballot access laws make it unnecessarily difficult for independent and minor party candidates to appear on the ballot. Excessive signature requirements, early filing deadlines, restrictive retention rules, and technical compliance hurdles act as structural barriers rather than legitimate safeguards.
These rules often limit who can run for office before voters ever have the chance to decide.
WHY VOTERS SHOULD CARE
When Ballots Are Restricted, Voters Lose
When ballot access is restricted, elections become less competitive and voters are left with fewer meaningful choices. A healthy democratic system depends on open competition and the ability for new voices and new ideas to enter the political process.
Lowering unnecessary barriers strengthens elections by allowing voters, not restrictive laws, to determine who deserves a place on the ballot.
OUR APPROACH
Turning Ballot Access Reform Into Law
Voter Choice Foundation researches ballot access laws across the country and develops practical legislative reforms that make the system more attainable and more fair.
Our work includes:
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Conducting legal and policy analysis of state election laws
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Drafting ready-to-file ballot access legislation
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Supporting lawmakers and advocates working to pass reform
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Building state coalitions capable of moving legislation forward
We combine legal expertise with real legislative strategy to turn reform ideas into enacted law.
OUR MISSION
Restoring Competition to American Elections
Our goal is simple: create a level playing field for candidates and expand real choices for voters.
We work to modernize outdated ballot access laws so that candidates who demonstrate meaningful support can compete, while voters retain the ultimate power to decide elections.
GET INVOLVED NOW
Ballot access reform succeeds when voters, advocates, and lawmakers work together.
You can help by:
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Supporting ballot access reform legislation in your state
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Connecting us with lawmakers or advocacy organizations
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Sharing our work and raising awareness about restrictive ballot laws
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Partnering with us to advance reform in your state
Together, we can remove unnecessary barriers and restore open competition to American elections.
LATEST BALLOT ACCESS INITIATIVE
BALLOTS WITHOUT BARRIERS
In America, when something is broken, we fix it.
Except when it comes to the ballot.
Across the country, restrictive ballot access laws operate like a hidden tax on voters and candidates, tilting the system before a single vote is cast.
See how your state measures up. Find your ballot access grade. Contact your representatives. Take action to unrig the ballot.
