On January 3, the 7th circuit refused to rehear the Illinois ballot access case called Lee v Keith. The 7th circuit had struck down the ballot access law for independent candidates for the state legislature in September 2006, and now has told the state that the decision stands. It is possible the state will now ask the U.S. Supreme Court to take the case.
What does this mean in plain terms? Is it easier or harder for independent/Third Party candidates now? Do we want the US SC involved?
Congrats to Richard Winger, Jeff Trigg and others who set this case up!!
Tony, this is a favorable ruling that says the current requirements for independent candidates are too steep but it doesn’t make the requirements easier. It will be up to the politicians to change those laws, so we don’t know how that will turn out yet. If this ruling is appealed to the US SC, we would prefer they not take it and let this ruling stand.
Congratulations to Ballot Access News! Richard, your advocacy helps promote more competitive elections. Your work is slowing the tyrants down!