The SBEC, in conjunction with the Office of the Secretary of State and the Arkansas Ethics Commission, publishes a comprehensive handbook for candidates entitled “Running for Public Office”. The handbook outlines the legal obligations of a candidate, explains the necessary qualifications for holding public office, identifies filing procedures for candidates, and summarizes candidate reporting requirements.
A link to the handbook is provided below along with links to other forms and information that may be helpful to candidates. To be mailed a hard copy of the handbook, contact our office.
Information for Candidates
2024 Running for Public Office Handbook
- Political Practice Pledge
- Filing Fees for Nonpartisan Office
- Poll Watcher Authorization Form
- Poll Watcher Rights and Responsibilities
- Ethics Commission Forms & Instructions
- Affidavit of Eligibility
- Notice of Candidacy
- Independent Candidates Affidavit
- Statement of Candidacy Form
- RFPO Frequently Asked Questions
Sample Petitions (please use legal size paper)
- Independent Candidate County Township and Justice of the Peace
- Independent Candidate Federal State and District
- Nonpartisan Candidate for Prosecuting Attorney
- Nonpartisan Candidate for Justice of the Supreme Court
- Nonpartisan Candidate for Court of Appeals
- Nonpartisan Candidate for Circuit Court Judge
- Nonpartisan Candidate for District Court Judge
- City Administrator Form of Government Candidates for Director
- City Administrator Form of Government Candidates for Mayor
- City Manager Form of Government Candidates for Director
- City Manager Form of Government Candidates for Mayor
- Mayor Council Form of Government Council Member Candidates elected at Large
- Mayor Council Form of Government Council Member Candidates elected by Ward
- Municipal Candidates (except Council Member in Cities of the 1st and 2nd Class)
- School Board Candidate by Zone Petition
- School Board Candidate at Large Petition
- President and Vice President
