Why are the rules that govern running for office so unfair?

Oak Lawn IL

29 December, 2020

11:28 AM

Description

Part of the problem, a huge part, is that generally the rules governing who can run, and what is needed to run, are written by lawyers. And these rules often seem written so as to make it nearly impossible for the non-lawyer to understand the requirements. First, one must generally file a petition to run. No one can literally show up at City Hall and say that they are running. And the rules governing petitions can literally cover how things as ridiculous as how the petition sheets are attached in the folder. Staples, or clips? An argument can be made that petitions are necessary. Otherwise, a situation could arise where 50 people say that they are running for Mayor. Part of the issue is deciphering how many signatures are necessary. The rules vary, and generally a percentage of eligible voters who voted in the preceding election determines how many signatures must be filed. But the number can also vary depending on if the person is running as part of an established Party, or as a new Party, or as an Independent. So how do we balance the need for some sort of process with the idea that it should not require a team of lawyers to run for office?