This year, two statewide initiative petitions were submitted in Illinois. The legislative term limits measure was found to have enough valid signatures, but the initiative for an independent redistricting commission was told it doesn’t have enough valid. Backers of the redistricting commission believe they do have enough, and hearings examiners are going over each disputed signature. See this story.

Even when the initiatives have enough valid signatures, the Illinois Constitution’s procedures for statewide initiatives are so restrictive, both proposals must also fight court battles on whether or not these subjects can qualify as initiatives. Illinois has had the statewide initiative since 1970, but only once has ever statewide initiative qualified for the ballot.

Although independent candidates, and the nominees of unqualified parties, need not submit New Hampshire petitions until August 6, they are required to file a Declaration of Candidacy by June 13.

The only petitioning candidates who filed for Congress this year are Libertarians Gardner Goldsmith for U.S. Senate, and Brian Chabot for U.S. House, 2nd district. The only petitioning candidate who filed for Governor is John D. Shea, an independent who was formerly a Democratic member of the Executive Council.

Sixteen petitioning candidates filed for State House. At least two of them are Libertarians; probably most of the remainder are independents. The Declaration of Candidacy form does not ask for party label; the candidates indicate that when they file their petitions.

On June 16, Siena Polls released a New York gubernatorial election poll. The results: Democratic Andrew Cuomo 57%, Republican Rob Astorino 21%, Green Howie Hawkins 4%, someone else 1%, won’t vote 6%, don’t know 10%. See the details here; see question 25.

The petition deadline for nominees of unqualified parties, and independent candidates, is August 5. The Libertarian Party is expected to petition, and perhaps others will also. Thanks to Political Wire for the link.