Each state in our union has its own rules for how to run elections at every level of government. The common thread among states is a democratic process that provides an equal and fair opportunity for all residents to vote for their municipal leaders, including disabled individuals and those who aren't able to be physically present in their municipalities on election day.
Voters have the opportunity to vote in municipal elections in local towns, villages and cities. In general, local elections may be run by a single individual, a board or commission of elections, or a combination of two or more bodies. In Texas, municipal elections are divided according to political subdivisions. The county clerk and the county tax assessor or collector are responsible for conducting municipal elections.
To keep elections as fair as possible, Texas, like other states, has strict rules for both candidates who run for office and voters.
Common Types of Elected Positions for Municipalities
The elected positions vary based on the municipal government's structure and the laws governing municipalities. Some of the more common positions that require municipal elections are:- Mayor or other executive leader
- Council member
- Auditor
- Treasurer
- School board member
- Library administrator
- County clerk
- Sheriff
Running for Local Political Subdivisions
The state of Texas is divided into political subdivisions. Residents who are interested in running for a municipal office must meet the qualifications and learn about other requirements for the position they wish to hold and file their application during the designated filing period. One of the minimum requirements is to file the application for a place on the ballot with their political subdivision. Candidates for local offices may only appear on the ballot as independent candidates unless their city charter specifically allows partisan candidacy. Candidates are required to fill out their applications in writing and must have them sworn to by a person who is authorized to administer an oath under Texas law. The city's secretary is allowed to administer the oath for applications to hold a place on the ballot. All candidates are required to meet certain qualifications for standard terms and vacancies.Running for Municipal Election in Texas
Some cities have stipulations that require candidates for office to collect a certain number of signatures on a petition before filling out an application for a place on the ballot with the city secretary.Qualifications for School District Elections
In Texas, candidates for school district elections must be U.S. citizens and must be at least 18 years of age. They must be a qualified voter by the required time and must also meet the other requirements listed under the Texas Election Code Section 141.001. School district candidates must file their application for a place on the ballot with the secretary of the school board. Other District Elections Certain municipalities may have additional elected positions, such as water district or hospital district officials. Candidates for these positions must also file an application for a place on the ballot with the secretary of the district board. This is a requirement for both regular and special elections.Voting Requirements and Other Information for Voters
Voters must show proof of identification when they arrive at their polling places. The following types of identification are acceptable:- Texas driver's license
- Texas state identification card
- Texas handgun license
- S. Passport
- S. Certificate of citizenship with photo
- Texas election identification card
- S. Military identification card
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