<section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-101" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>This subtitle governs the process by which an individual becomes a candidate for a public or party office in an election governed by this article.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An individual’s name may not be placed on the ballot and submitted to the voters at an election unless the individual complies with the requirements of this title.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-201" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Qualifications"> <text>An individual may become a candidate for a public or party office only if the individual satisfies the qualifications for that office established by law and, in the case of a party office, by party constitution or bylaws.</text> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-202" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Qualifications"> <text>A candidate for public or party office must be a registered voter at an address that satisfies any residence requirement for the office that is imposed by law and, in the case of a party office, by party rules.</text> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-203" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Qualifications"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection does not apply to a candidate for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>President or Vice President of the United States; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any federal office who seeks nomination by petition.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Unless the individual is a registered voter affiliated with the political party, an individual may not be a candidate for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an office of that political party; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, nomination by that political party.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The requirements for party affiliation specified under subsection (a) of this section do not apply to a candidate for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a judicial office; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a county board of education.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-204" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Qualifications"> <level label="a"> <text>An individual simultaneously may not be a candidate for more than one public office.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An individual simultaneously may not be a candidate for more than one office of a political party.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Unless otherwise prohibited by rule of the applicable political party, an individual simultaneously may be a candidate for a party office and a public office.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-205" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Qualifications"> <level label="a"> <text>In accordance with Article II of the Maryland Constitution, when a candidate for nomination for Governor files a certificate of candidacy for that office, the candidate shall designate a candidate for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The candidates for nomination for Governor and Lieutenant Governor each shall file for nomination and be considered a unit for nomination to the offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The names of the candidates of a unit for Governor and Lieutenant Governor shall be listed jointly on the ballot.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A vote cast for a candidate for Governor also shall be a vote cast for the candidate for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-301" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Certificate of Candidacy"> <level label="a"> <text>An individual may become a candidate for a public or party office only if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the individual files a certificate of candidacy in accordance with this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the individual does not file a certificate of withdrawal under Subtitle 5 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The appropriate board shall determine whether an individual filing a certificate of candidacy meets the requirements of this article, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the voter registration and party affiliation requirements under Subtitle 2 of this title; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the campaign finance reporting requirements under Title 13 of this article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>On the certificate of candidacy, a candidate shall designate how the candidate’s name is to appear on the ballot.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, a candidate shall file a certificate of candidacy in which the candidate lists any given name, an initial letter of any other given name, and surname.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A candidate may file a certificate of candidacy in a name different than that specified under paragraph (2) of this subsection if the candidate files an affidavit, under penalties of perjury, attesting that the candidate is generally known by that other name in:</text> <level label="i"> <text>press accounts concerning the candidate, if any; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if press accounts do not exist, the candidate’s everyday encounters with members of the community.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Except for the use of quotation marks to enclose a portion of a name, the use of symbols, titles, degrees, or other professional designations on a certificate of candidacy is prohibited.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>A candidate who seeks nomination by petition shall file a certificate of candidacy as provided in § 5–703 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A write–in candidate shall file a certificate of candidacy as provided under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>On or before the first Monday in August in the year in which a justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland must stand for continuance in office, the Clerk of the Supreme Court of Maryland shall provide written notice to the State Board of the name of the justice that is to be placed on the ballot at the next succeeding general election together with the identification of the judicial circuit from which the qualified voters of that circuit may cast a vote for the justice’s continuance in office.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>On or before the first Monday in August in the year in which a justice of the Appellate Court of Maryland must stand for continuance in office, the Clerk of the Appellate Court of Maryland shall provide written notice to the State Board of the name of the justice that is to be placed on the ballot at the next succeeding general election together with:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the identification of the judicial circuit from which the qualified voters of that circuit may cast a vote for the justice’s continuance in office; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a statement that the voters of the entire State may cast a vote for the justice’s continuance in office.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>An incumbent justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland or Appellate Court of Maryland is not required to file a certificate of candidacy for an election for continuance in office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate for President or Vice President of the United States nominated by a national party convention is not required to file a certificate of candidacy under this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If more than one written notice naming different presidential and vice presidential nominees is provided to the State Board by persons purporting to be the presiding officer of the same party convention, the State Board shall require the chairman of the State party to provide written reaffirmation of the party’s nominees within 5 days after the State Board’s demand.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The presiding officers of the national party convention shall file a certificate of nomination with the State Board within 5 days after the conclusion of the national party convention.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-302" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Certificate of Candidacy"> <level label="a"> <text>A certificate of candidacy shall be filed under oath on the prescribed form.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The certificate of candidacy shall be filed with the State Board if the candidacy is for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an office to be voted upon by the voters of the entire State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the General Assembly of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Representative in Congress;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the office of judge of the circuit court for a county; or</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>an office of elected delegate to a presidential national convention provided for under Title 8, Subtitle 5 of this article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If the candidacy is for an office other than an office described in subsection (b) of this section, the certificate of candidacy shall be filed with the local board of the applicable county.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In accordance with regulations adopted by the State Board, each local board shall provide the name and other required information for each candidate to the State Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The State Administrator may designate satellite locations for a temporary period to receive a certificate of candidacy.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-303" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Certificate of Candidacy"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsections (b), (c), and (d) of this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>in the year in which the Governor is elected, a certificate of candidacy shall be filed not later than 9 p.m. on the last Tuesday in February in the year in which the primary election will be held; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for any other regularly scheduled election, a certificate of candidacy shall be filed not later than 9 p.m. on the 95th day before the day on which the primary election will be held.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a certificate of candidacy for an office to be filled by a special election under this article shall be received and filed in the office of the appropriate board not later than 5 p.m. on the first Monday that is 3 weeks or 21 days after the issuance of the proclamation by the Governor for the special primary election.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, the certificate of candidacy for the election of a write–in candidate shall be filed by the earlier of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>7 days after a total expenditure of at least $51 is made to promote the candidacy by a campaign finance entity of the candidate; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>5 p.m. on the 7th day preceding the start of early voting for which the certificate is filed.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The certificate of candidacy for a special election of a write–in candidate shall be filed by the earlier of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>7 days after a total expenditure of at least $51 is made to promote the candidacy by any authorized candidate campaign committee of the candidate; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>5 p.m. on the 7th day preceding the start of voting at a precinct polling place or, if the election is being conducted by mail, the voting center established under § 9–503 of this article for which the certificate is filed.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-304" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Certificate of Candidacy"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>A certificate of candidacy may be filed:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in person; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if authorized by subsection (b) of this section, by certified mail, personal messenger, or other delivery service designated by the filer.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A certificate of candidacy may not be filed by facsimile service or other electronic transmission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A certificate of candidacy may be filed as permitted under subsection (a)(1)(ii) of this section, if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the individual filing the certificate is unable to do so in person because of illness, service in the uniformed services, or temporary absence from the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the certificate is accompanied by an affidavit signed by the individual filing the certificate setting forth fully the facts that prevent that individual from filing the certificate in person.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>On the certificate of candidacy form prescribed by the State Board, the candidate shall specify:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the office, including, if applicable, the party, district, and circuit to which the candidacy relates;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the year of the election;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the name of the individual filing the certificate;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the address on the statewide voter registration list or the current address of that individual;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>a statement that the individual satisfies the requirements of law for candidacy for the office for which the certificate is being filed; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>any information requested by the State Board to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the individual under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The certificate of candidacy shall be accompanied by:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a filing fee satisfying the requirements of § 5–401 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a separate form, unless such a form has previously been filed, establishing a campaign finance entity under Title 13 of this article;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>evidence that the individual has filed:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a financial disclosure statement with the State Ethics Commission in accordance with the requirements of Title 5, Subtitle 6 of the General Provisions Article; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>any other financial disclosure report required by law; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>any additional information required by the State Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The appropriate board shall accept the certificate of candidacy if it determines that all requirements are satisfied.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-305" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Certificate of Candidacy"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies only to a petition that will affect the right of a candidate to have the candidate’s name appear on the ballot in a primary or general election.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A registered voter who is a resident of the district or other geographic area in which a candidate is seeking office may file a petition with the circuit court for that district or geographic area to challenge the candidate’s residency as provided in § 5–202 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The petition must be filed 15 days after the filing dates provided in § 5–303 of this subtitle and §§ 5–703(c) and 5–703.1(c) of this title for which the candidate filed a certificate of candidacy.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>Judicial review of any petition that is filed under subsection (b) of this section shall be expedited by the circuit court that hears the cause to the extent necessary in consideration of the deadlines established by law, and in no case longer than 7 days from the date the petition is filed.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A judicial proceeding under this section shall be conducted in accordance with the Maryland Rules, except that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the case shall be heard and decided without a jury and as expeditiously as the circumstances require; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an appeal shall be taken directly to the Supreme Court of Maryland within 5 days after the date of the decision of the circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Supreme Court of Maryland shall give priority to hear and decide an appeal brought under paragraph (2)(ii) of this subsection as expeditiously as the circumstances require.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-401" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Filing Fees"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>This section does not apply to a write–in candidate.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Unless exempted under subsection (c) of this section, an individual who files a certificate of candidacy shall pay a filing fee at the time the certificate of candidacy is filed.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The filing fee shall be as follows:</text> <level label="1"> <text>President and Vice President of the United States No fee</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Governor or Lieutenant Governor $290 each</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Comptroller of the Treasury $290</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Attorney General $290</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>United States Senator $290</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>Representative in Congress $100</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>Member of the General Assembly $50</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>Mayor of the City of Baltimore $150</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>Comptroller of the City of Baltimore $150</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>City Council of Baltimore:</text> <level label="i"> <text>President $150</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>member at large voted on by the voters of the entire City of Baltimore……………………………………………………………………………………….$150</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>member voted on by less than the entire City of Baltimore………………………………………………………………………………………...$50</text> </level> </level> <level label="11"> <text>offices of the City of Baltimore, not specified in items (8), (9), and (10) of this subsection, that are voted on by the voters of the entire City of Baltimore……………………………………………………………………………………….$150</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>any other public office $25</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>member of a party central committee $10</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate may petition for a waiver of the filing fee in accordance with this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The filing fee required by this section shall be waived if the candidate establishes inability to pay the fee.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A candidate may demonstrate inability to pay the filing fee by attaching to the certificate of candidacy when it is filed a sworn statement on the form prescribed by the State Board of inability to pay which sets forth:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the nature, extent, and liquidity of the candidate’s assets; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the candidate’s disposable net income.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>At its discretion and in order to conduct any investigation of the petition for waiver, the appropriate board may request that the candidate provide additional information concerning the candidate’s financial status.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>If the appropriate board determines that the candidate is unable to pay the required filing fee, the certificate of candidacy shall be issued without payment of the fee.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-402" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Filing Fees"> <level label="a"> <text>Upon request, a candidate who pays a filing fee is entitled to a return of the filing fee upon the filing of the certificate of withdrawal on the form prescribed by the State Board if the candidate enters into active duty with the armed services of the United States during the period between the last date allowed for the withdrawal of candidacy and the printing of the ballots.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Subject to the approval of the State Board, the filing fee paid by a candidate may be returned to the candidate for good cause.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-403" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Filing Fees"> <text>Filing fees paid by candidates under § 5–401 of this subtitle shall be distributed </text> <text>to the Fair Campaign Financing Fund established under § 15–103 of this article.</text> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-501" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Withdrawal of Candidacy After Filing but Before Primary Election"> <text>An individual who has filed a certificate of candidacy may withdraw the candidacy by filing a certificate of withdrawal as provided in this subtitle.</text> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-502" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Withdrawal of Candidacy After Filing but Before Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to § 5–402 of this title, an individual who has filed a certificate of candidacy may withdraw the candidacy by filing a certificate of withdrawal on the form prescribed by the State Board within 10 days after the filing date established under § 5–303 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An individual who has filed a certificate of candidacy for the special election to fill a vacancy for Representative in Congress may withdraw the certificate on the prescribed form within 2 days after the filing date established in the proclamation issued by the Governor.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-503" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Withdrawal of Candidacy After Filing but Before Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the certificate of withdrawal shall be filed with the appropriate board with which the individual filed the certificate of candidacy.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The proclamation issued by the Governor under § 8-710 of this article for a special election to fill a vacancy for Representative in Congress shall allow any individual who has filed a certificate of candidacy to withdraw the candidacy as provided under the terms of the proclamation.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-504" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Withdrawal of Candidacy After Filing but Before Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>If a certificate of withdrawal is filed under this subtitle:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the certificate of candidacy to which the certificate of withdrawal relates is void;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the name of the candidate may not be submitted to the voters for nomination and election to the office to which the certificate relates unless the individual files a new certificate of candidacy within the time limit prescribed for filing; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>except as provided in § 5-402 of this title, the filing fee for the certificate of candidacy may not be refunded.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Except for the offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor, the name of any individual who files a certificate of candidacy and does not withdraw shall appear on the primary election ballot unless, by the 10th day after the filing deadline specified under § 5-303 of this title, the individual’s death or disqualification is known to the applicable board with which the certificate of candidacy was filed.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-601" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Qualification for Primary Election Ballot"> <text>The name of a candidate shall remain on the ballot and be submitted to the voters at a primary election if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the candidate has filed a certificate of candidacy in accordance with the requirements of § 5-301 of this title and has satisfied any other requirements of this article relating to the office for which the individual is a candidate, provided the candidate:</text> <level label="i"> <text>has not withdrawn the candidacy in accordance with Subtitle 5 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>has not died or become disqualified, and that fact is known to the applicable board by the deadline prescribed in § 5-504(b) of this title;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>does not seek nomination by petition pursuant to the provisions of § 5-703 of this title; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>is not a write-in candidate; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the candidate has qualified to have the candidate’s name submitted to the voters in a presidential primary election under Title 8, Subtitle 5 of this article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-701" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <text>Nominations for public offices that are filled by elections governed by this article shall be made:</text> <level label="1"> <text>by party primary, for candidates of a principal political party;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>by petition, for candidates not affiliated with any political party; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>in accordance with the constitution and bylaws of the political party, for candidates of a political party that does not nominate by party primary.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-702" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <text>A candidate for public office of a political party shall be nominated in accordance with the requirements of Subtitles 2 through 4 of this title unless the candidate is:</text> <level label="1"> <text>nominated by:</text> <level label="i"> <text>petition under § 5-703 of this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>political party under § 5-703.1 of this subtitle; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a write-in candidate under § 5-704 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-703" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <level label="a"> <text>Except for a candidate for a nonpartisan county board of education, this section applies to any candidate for public office subject to this title.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A candidate for a public office may be nominated by petition under this subtitle if the candidate is not affiliated with any political party.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate for public office who seeks nomination by petition shall file a declaration of intent to seek nomination by petition.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The declaration of intent shall be filed with the board at which the candidate files a certificate of candidacy under Subtitle 3 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The declaration of intent shall be filed as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>not later than the first Monday in July; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for a special election to fill a vacancy for Representative in Congress, by the date and time specified in the Governor’s proclamation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A candidate who seeks nomination by petition may not be charged a fee for filing the declaration of intent.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate for public office who seeks nomination by petition shall file a certificate of candidacy not later than 5 p.m. on the first Monday in August in the year of the general election for the office.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except for the time of filing, the certificate of candidacy for a candidate who seeks nomination by petition shall comply with the requirements for a certificate of candidacy under Subtitle 3 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate who seeks nomination by petition may not have the candidate’s name placed on the general election ballot unless the candidate files with the appropriate board petitions signed by the lesser of 10,000 registered voters or 1% of the total number of registered voters who are eligible to vote for the office for which the nomination by petition is sought, except that the petitions shall be signed by at least 250 registered voters who are eligible to vote for the office.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The petitions shall be filed as required in Title 6 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The number of registered voters required to satisfy the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be determined as of January 1 of the year of the primary election for which the nomination is sought.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a petition that contains the required number of signatures specified under subsection (e)(1) of this section shall be filed with the appropriate board by 5 p.m. on the first Monday in August in the year in which the general election is held.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In a special election to fill a vacancy in the office of Representative in Congress, a petition that contains the required number of signatures shall be filed with the State Board by 5 p.m. on the day of the special primary election.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-703.1" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <level label="a"> <text>Except for a candidate for a nonpartisan county board of education, this section applies to any candidate for public office subject to this title.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A candidate for a public office may be nominated by a political party under this subtitle if the political party is not required to nominate its candidates by party primary.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>This subsection does not apply to a candidate nominated by a new political party under § 4–102(f) of this article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A candidate for public office who seeks political party nomination under this section shall file a declaration of intent to seek political party nomination.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The declaration of intent shall be filed with the board at which the candidate files a certificate of candidacy under Subtitle 3 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The declaration of intent shall be filed as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>not later than the first Monday in July; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>for a special election to fill a vacancy:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for Representative in Congress, by the date and time specified in the Governor’s proclamation; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for a local public office, by the date and time specified in the county proclamation.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A candidate who seeks nomination by political party may not be charged a fee for filing the declaration of intent.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate for public office who seeks nomination by political party shall file a certificate of candidacy not later than 5 p.m. on the first Monday in August in the year of the general election for the office.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except for the time of filing, the certificate of candidacy for a candidate who seeks nomination by political party shall comply with the requirements for a certificate of candidacy under Subtitle 3 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>A candidate for nomination by political party may not have the candidate’s name placed on the general election ballot unless the candidate files with the appropriate board, on a form the State Board prescribes, a certificate of nomination signed by the officers of the political party.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>In a special election to fill a vacancy in the office of Representative in Congress, a certificate of nomination shall be filed with the State Board by 5 p.m. on the day of the special primary election.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-704" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <text>An individual who seeks election as a write-in candidate shall file a certificate of candidacy as required under § 5-303 of this title.</text> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-705" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <level label="a"> <text>A certificate of nomination that entitles a candidate for public office to have the candidate’s name listed on the general election ballot and submitted to the voters at the general election shall be issued in accordance with this section.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to § 13–332.1 of this article, the State Board shall issue a certificate of nomination to each candidate who files a certificate of candidacy with the State Board and who qualifies for the nomination.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Subject to § 13–332.1 of this article, the local board with which a candidate files a certificate of candidacy shall issue a certificate of nomination to each candidate who qualifies for the nomination.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A political party may have only one candidate as its nominee for any position to be filled in a general election.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A certificate of nomination may not contain the name of more than one nominee for each office to be filled at the election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Following the certification of the primary elections returns by the board responsible for the certification of the results of that election, that board shall issue a certificate of election to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>each candidate for delegate to a national party convention who is certified by the State Board to have been elected in accordance with the party’s rules; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>each candidate to a party central committee who is certified by the local board to have been elected to that position.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-706" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Nomination"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not apply to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a candidate selected by a political party to fill a vacancy in nomination under Subtitle 9 or Subtitle 10 of this title; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a candidate defeated in a presidential preference primary.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, the name of a candidate who is defeated for the nomination for a public office may not appear on the ballot at the next succeeding general election as a candidate for any office.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A candidate who is defeated for the nomination for a public office may not file a certificate of candidacy as a write–in candidate at the next succeeding general election as a candidate for any office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The name of a candidate for the office of judge of the circuit court who is defeated in the primary election in each contest for the office of circuit court judge in which the candidate appears on the ballot may not appear on the ballot at the succeeding general election as a candidate for any office.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-801" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Declination of Nomination"> <level label="a"> <text>A nominee may decline the nomination by filing a certificate of declination on the prescribed form.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The certificate of declination shall be under oath and filed:</text> <level label="1"> <text>with the board at which the certificate of candidacy was filed; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>in the year of a gubernatorial election, by the first Tuesday in August immediately preceding the general election; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>in the year of a presidential election, by the first Tuesday in August immediately preceding the general election.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If a certificate of declination is filed under this section:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the certificate of nomination to which the certificate of declination relates is void;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a vacancy in nomination is created to be filled in accordance with the provisions of Subtitle 10 of this title;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the name of the individual who declined the nomination may not appear on the ballot unless the individual is selected to fill that vacancy; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the filing fee for the certificate of candidacy of that individual may not be refunded.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The name of each individual who does not decline a nomination shall appear on the general election ballot unless, by the 85th day preceding the general election, the individual’s death or disqualification is known to the board with which the certificate of candidacy was filed.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-901" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Vacancies in Candidacy Occurring Before a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not apply to a vacancy in nomination in the office of a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>This section applies to a vacancy in candidacy for a primary election that occurs because:</text> <level label="1"> <text>of the death, disqualification, or withdrawal of an unopposed candidate; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>no candidate for the political party files a certificate of candidacy for the election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except for a vacancy in candidacy for the election of a member of the Senate of Maryland or the House of Delegates as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the vacancy in candidacy for a political party that is entitled to have a candidate on the ballot for an office elected by the voters of more than one county shall be filled by the State central committee or governing body of that political party.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>In a State legislative district or a State delegate district comprising more than one county, a vacancy in candidacy for a political party that is entitled to have a candidate on the ballot shall be filled by a vote of the central committee in the counties in the district.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In filling the vacancy in candidacy under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the central committee of each county where the vacancy occurs shall cast a vote proportionate to its share of the total registered voters of the district as reported in the most recent statistical report by the State Board.</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>If no person receives a majority of the votes cast under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, or if there is a tie vote by the central committees, the vacancy in candidacy shall be filled by the State central committee of the political party.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>For any public or party office not described in subsection (c) of this section, a vacancy in candidacy under this section shall be filled by the central committee of the political party in the county in which the office is located.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>A central committee authorized to fill a vacancy in candidacy for an office under this section because of the withdrawal of an unopposed candidate or because no candidate filed for the office shall file a certificate of designation of candidacy with the appropriate board designated to receive the certificate of candidacy for that office 4 days after the withdrawal date provided in § 5–502 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A central committee authorized to fill a vacancy in candidacy for an office under this section because of the death or disqualification of an unopposed candidate shall file a certificate of designation with the appropriate board designated to receive the certificate of candidacy for that office 4 days after the death or disqualification becomes known to the applicable board in accordance with § 5–504 of this title.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The individual designated by a central committee under subsection (e) of this section to fill a vacancy shall file a certificate of candidacy in accordance with Subtitle 3 of this title with the appropriate board by the date specified for the applicable central committee to file a certificate of designation under subsection (e) of this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-902" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Vacancies in Candidacy Occurring Before a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>If either of the candidates of a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit dies, withdraws the candidacy, or becomes disqualified for any reason prior to the deadline for filing a certificate of candidacy for a primary election under § 5-303 of this title, the remaining candidate may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>designate a successor candidate who shall file a certificate of candidacy before the later of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the deadline specified under § 5-303 of this title; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the fifth day following the death, withdrawal, or disqualification of the former candidate;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>withdraw under Subtitle 5 of this title; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>after withdrawing under paragraph (2) of this subsection, form a successor unit for the candidacy for the offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor by filing a certificate of candidacy by the date specified under subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The candidates of the successor unit for Governor and Lieutenant Governor formed under subsection (a)(3) of this section each shall file a certificate of candidacy as a successor unit before the later of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the deadline for filing a certificate of candidacy for the primary election under § 5-303 of this title; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the fifth day following the death, withdrawal, or disqualification of the former candidate.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-903" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Vacancies in Candidacy Occurring Before a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>If a candidate for Lieutenant Governor dies, withdraws the candidacy, or becomes disqualified for any reason after the deadline for filing a certificate of candidacy for a primary election under § 5–303 of this title, the remaining candidate for Governor of that unit may designate a successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Provided the successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor files a certificate of candidacy in accordance with subsection (b) of this section, the name of the successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor shall appear on the ballot.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor designated by the candidate for Governor under subsection (a) of this section shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The certificate of candidacy shall be filed:</text> <level label="i"> <text>by the fifth day following the withdrawal deadline specified under § 5–502 of this title, if the former Lieutenant Governor candidate files a certificate of withdrawal; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>by the fifth day following the death or disqualification of the former Lieutenant Governor candidate, if that former candidate dies or is disqualified less than 70 days before the day of the primary election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A certificate of candidacy for a successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor under subsection (b)(2)(ii) of this section may not be filed less than 65 days before the day of the primary election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If the death or disqualification of a former Lieutenant Governor candidate occurs less than 65 days before the day of the primary election, the existing Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit whose filing is complete:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall remain on the ballot; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if nominated, a vacancy in the nomination of the candidate for Lieutenant Governor shall be declared and be filled under § 5–1005(b) of this title as if the death or disqualification had occurred after the primary election.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-904" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Vacancies in Candidacy Occurring Before a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not apply if only one Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit files a certificate of candidacy for the nomination of a political party for those offices in a primary election.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If a candidate for Governor dies, withdraws the candidacy, or becomes disqualified for any reason after the deadline for filing a certificate of candidacy for a primary election under § 5–303 of this title, the remaining candidate for Lieutenant Governor of that unit may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>designate the Lieutenant Governor candidate as the successor candidate for Governor and appoint a successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>designate a successor candidate for Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The names of any Governor and Lieutenant Governor candidate unit that is designated under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be listed jointly on the primary election ballot.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The successor candidate for Governor designated by the Lieutenant Governor candidate under subsection (b)(1)(ii) of this section, or the former candidate for Lieutenant Governor who subsequently is designated as the candidate for Governor together with the candidate appointed as the successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor under subsection (b)(1)(i) of this section, each shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The certificate of candidacy shall be filed:</text> <level label="i"> <text>by the fifth day following the withdrawal deadline specified under § 5–502 of this title, if the former candidate for Governor files a certificate of withdrawal; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>by the fifth day following the day of the death or disqualification of the former candidate for Governor, if that former candidate dies or is disqualified less than 70 days before the day of the primary election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A certificate of candidacy may not be filed under paragraph (2)(ii) of this subsection less than 65 days before the day of the primary election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If the death or disqualification of a former candidate for Governor occurs less than 65 days before the day of the primary election, the existing Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit whose filing is complete:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall remain on the ballot; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if nominated, a vacancy in the office of Governor shall be declared and filled under § 5–1005 of this title as if the death or disqualification had occurred after the primary election.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-905" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Vacancies in Candidacy Occurring Before a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>If only a single Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit files for the nomination of a political party, and the candidate for Governor dies, withdraws the candidacy, or is disqualified for any reason after the filing deadline specified under § 5–303 of this title, the remaining candidate for Lieutenant Governor is disqualified.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In the event of a vacancy in nomination under subsection (a) of this section, the State central committee of the political party to which the candidates belong shall select a successor candidate for Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The State central committee shall make its selection by the 10th day following the death, withdrawal, or disqualification of the gubernatorial candidate.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The candidate disqualified for the office of Lieutenant Governor under subsection (a) of this section is eligible to be chosen as the successor candidate for Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The successor candidate for Governor selected by the State central committee under subsection (b) of this section promptly shall select a successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the former candidate for Lieutenant Governor is not selected as the successor candidate for Governor, that individual is eligible to be selected again as the candidate for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>By the deadline date specified under subsection (b)(2) of this section for the selection of the successor candidate for Governor by the appropriate State central committee, in accordance with Subtitle 3 of this title:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the State central committee making the selection shall file a certificate of designation for those offices with the State Board for:</text> <level label="i"> <text>its successor candidate for Governor; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the successor candidate for Lieutenant Governor designated under subsection (c)(1) of this section; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the successor candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor each shall file a certificate of candidacy for those offices with the State Board.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1001" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="Filling Vacancies in Nomination After a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>When a local board receives a certificate of designation and a certificate of candidacy to fill a vacancy in nomination under this subtitle, it shall notify the State Board of the change by the end of the next business day following the receipt of the certificates.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>When the State Board is notified by a local board of a change in nomination under subsection (a) of this section or when a certificate of designation and a certificate of candidacy to fill a vacancy in nomination is filed directly with the State Board under this subtitle, the State Board shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>certify the nomination and substitute, for the name of the original nominee, the name of the individual who has been designated and determined to be qualified to have that individual’s name placed on the ballot as a successor nominee; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>certify the new nomination to the appropriate local boards.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If the State Board has already issued a certificate of nomination for a nominee under this section, it promptly shall certify to the appropriate local boards:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the name and residence of the individual designated by the State central committee of the political party as the successor nominee to fill the vacancy;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the office for which the successor nominee is nominated;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the political party the successor nominee represents; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the name of the individual for whom the successor nominee is substituted.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If a successor nominee to fill a vacancy in office is certified by the State Board under this section, the certificate of nomination for the prior nominee is void.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1002" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="Filling Vacancies in Nomination After a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies only to a nominee for statewide office, except for a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>A vacancy in nomination that occurs because a nominee declines the nomination shall be filled by the State central committee of the political party to which the nominee belongs by the 88th day before the general election.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>A vacancy in nomination that occurs because a nominee dies or is disqualified for any cause shall be filled by the State central committee of the political party to which the nominee belongs by the 81st day before the general election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The State central committee shall file a certificate of designation for the nominee with the State Board.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The successor nominee designated by the State central committee under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1003" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="Filling Vacancies in Nomination After a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies to a vacancy in nomination for Representative in Congress, State Senator, or member of the House of Delegates, if the district includes more than one county.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A vacancy in nomination under this section that occurs because the nominee dies, withdraws the candidacy, or is disqualified for any reason shall be filled by:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a vote of the central committees of the political party in each of the counties included in the district of that nominee; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a State central committee for a nonprincipal political party that does not have local central committees.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The central committee of each county shall cast a vote that is proportionate to its share of the total registered voters in that district as reported in the most recent statistical report by the State Board and promptly notify its State central committee of the results of its vote.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>If no person receives a majority of the votes cast under paragraph (2) of this subsection, or if there is a tie vote by the central committees, the vacancy in nomination shall be filled by the State central committee.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In the event of a tie vote, the nominee selected by the State central committee shall be one of the candidates involved in the tie.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Following the declination of the nominee, by the 88th day before the general election:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the State central committee shall file a certificate of designation for the nominee with the State Board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the successor nominee designated by the State central committee under item (i) of this paragraph shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Following the death or disqualification of the nominee, by the 81st day before the general election:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the State central committee shall file a certificate of designation for the nominee with the State Board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the successor nominee designated by the State central committee under item (i) of this paragraph shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1004" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="Filling Vacancies in Nomination After a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>A vacancy in nomination for an office that is entirely in one county shall be filled by:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a central committee in that county as provided in this section; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a State central committee for a nonprincipal political party that does not have a local central committee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If a nominee for an office that is entirely in one county declines the nomination or gains a tie vote with another candidate in a primary election, the vacancy in nomination shall be filled by the 88th day before the general election.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If a nominee for an office that is entirely in one county dies or becomes disqualified, the vacancy in nomination shall be filled by the 81st day before the general election.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The vacancy shall be filled by the central committee of the same political party as the individual vacating the nomination.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the office is to be voted on by the voters of the entire county, the vacancy shall be filled by the central committee of that county.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If the office is voted on only by the voters of one legislative district and the central committee is elected by legislative district, the vacancy shall be filled by the members of the central committee of that legislative district.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If the office is for Representative in Congress and is a district that is wholly within one county, the vacancy shall be filled by the central committee for that county.</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>By the deadline prescribed in subsection (b) of this section:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the applicable central committee shall file a certificate of designation with the applicable board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the successor nominee designated by the applicable central committee under item (i) of this paragraph shall file a certificate of candidacy with the applicable board.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If the vacancy results because of a tie vote between two or more candidates, the nominee selected by the central committee under this section shall be one of those candidates.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1005" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="10" subtitle_name="Filling Vacancies in Nomination After a Primary Election"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to the nominees of a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>whether or not a certificate of nomination has been issued to the nominees by the State Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If, after the primary election, a candidate for Lieutenant Governor dies, declines the nomination, or becomes disqualified, the remaining nominee for Governor of that unit may designate a successor nominee for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>By the fifth day following the day of the death, declination, or disqualification of the nominee for Lieutenant Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the nominee for Governor shall designate the successor nominee for Lieutenant Governor and notify the State central committee of the applicable political party of the selection;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the State central committee of the political party of the nominee shall file a certificate of designation with the State Board; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the successor nominee for Lieutenant Governor shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If a nominee for Governor dies, declines the nomination, or becomes disqualified after the primary election, the remaining nominee for Lieutenant Governor is disqualified, except as otherwise provided in this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The State central committee of the political party of the nominee for Lieutenant Governor disqualified under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall select a successor nominee for Governor.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The disqualified nominee for Lieutenant Governor is eligible to be chosen as the nominee for Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>The successor nominee for Governor promptly shall select a successor nominee for Lieutenant Governor and notify the State central committee of the applicable political party of the selection.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The disqualified nominee for Lieutenant Governor is eligible to be selected again as the nominee for Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Except as provided under paragraph (5) of this subsection, by the fifth day following the death, declination, or disqualification of the former nominee for Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the State central committee shall file a certificate of designation for the successor nominee for Governor and the successor nominee for Lieutenant Governor with the State Board; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>each of the successor nominees shall file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>A State central committee may not file a certificate of designation for a successor nominee for Governor under this subsection within 65 days of the day of the general election.</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>A Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit shall remain on the ballot for the general election if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a nominee for Governor dies, declines the nomination, or is disqualified less than 65 days before the general election; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a certificate of designation and certificates of candidacy for successor nominees for Governor and Lieutenant Governor are not filed in accordance with this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="7"> <text>If a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit comprised of a nominee for Governor who has died, declined the nomination, or become disqualified remains on the ballot as provided under paragraph (6) of this subsection, during the campaign period following the death, declination, or disqualification of the gubernatorial nominee until the general election, the Lieutenant Governor nominee officially becomes the gubernatorial nominee and may assert that status in the campaign.</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>If a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit comprised of a nominee for Governor who has died, declined the nomination, or become disqualified remains on the ballot as provided under paragraph (6) of this subsection and is elected, the vacancy resulting from the death, declination, or disqualification shall be filled as if it had occurred after the general election in accordance with applicable law.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1101" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="11" subtitle_name="Vacancies in Candidacy for Petition Candidates"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies to petition candidates for the office of Governor and Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If either of the candidates of a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit nominated by petition under § 5–703 of this title dies, withdraws a certificate of candidacy, or becomes disqualified prior to the deadline for filing a certificate of candidacy for a primary election under § 5–303 of this title, the remaining candidate may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>select a successor candidate and:</text> <level label="1"> <text>file a certificate or designation with the State Board; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>have the individual designated file a certificate of candidacy with the State Board in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection; or</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>withdraw the certificate of candidacy and form a new unit for Governor and Lieutenant Governor.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Each member of the successor unit for Governor and Lieutenant Governor formed under this section shall file a certificate of candidacy before the later of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the deadline specified under § 5–303 of this title; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the fifth day following the death, withdrawal, or disqualification of the former nominee.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, if either of the nominees of a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit nominated by petition dies, withdraws a certificate of candidacy, or becomes disqualified after the deadline for filing a certificate of candidacy for a primary election under § 5–303 of this title, the remaining nominee may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>designate another nominee as the successor nominee for the vacancy in nomination; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>assume the vacancy in nomination of the prior nominee and designate another nominee for the position in the unit that formerly was held by the successor nominee who assumed the vacancy created by the death, withdrawal, or disqualification of the prior nominee.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>The successor nominees or the nominee who exercises the option to assume a position in the Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit previously held by a nominee who dies, withdraws a certificate of candidacy, or becomes disqualified shall file with the State Board either:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a certificate of candidacy, if no certificate was filed previously; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a change of candidacy, if the nominee is a candidate for a different office as a part of the successor unit.</text> </level> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The certificate of candidacy:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be filed by the fifth day following the death, withdrawal, or disqualification of a prior nominee after the deadline specified in paragraph (1) of this subsection; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may not be filed within 65 days of the day of the general election.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If a nominee for Governor or Lieutenant Governor subject to this section dies, withdraws a certificate of candidacy, or becomes disqualified less than 69 days before the day of the general election and the certificate of candidacy required by subsection (b) of this section is not filed with the State Board, the unit:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall remain on the ballot; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if elected, the vacancy resulting from the death, declination, or disqualification shall be filled as if it had occurred after the general election, in accordance with this article or other applicable provisions of law.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The certificate for nomination by petition for a nominee subject to this section shall be issued by the State Board under § 5–703 of this title.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>No additional petitions are required if one of the members of the original Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit remains a nominee of the successor unit.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1201" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="12" subtitle_name="Miscellaneous Provisions"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as otherwise specifically provided in this title, if either nominee of a Governor and Lieutenant Governor unit dies, declines the nomination, or is disqualified, the remaining nominee shall cease to be a candidate if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a successor nominee is not designated or selected under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the certificate of designation and certificate of candidacy required under this subtitle are not filed in a timely manner.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If a successor nominee for Governor or Lieutenant Governor is not designated or selected as required under this subtitle, the name of the remaining nominee may not appear on the ballot.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If an individual designated as a successor nominee for an office other than Governor or Lieutenant Governor does not file the certificate of candidacy required under this subtitle or otherwise fails to comply with the requirements of this title, the name of that individual may not appear on the ballot.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1202" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="12" subtitle_name="Miscellaneous Provisions"> <text>An individual selected or designated to fill a vacancy in candidacy or nomination under this title shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>file a certificate of candidacy with the appropriate board in accordance with Subtitle 3 of this title; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>unless exempted under this title, pay the filing fee specified under § 5-401 of this title.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1203" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="12" subtitle_name="Miscellaneous Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>At each general election, the names of the following nominees shall be submitted to the voters:</text> <level label="1"> <text>each candidate nominated under this title who has satisfied the requirements of this article or other provisions of law, provided the candidate has not:</text> <level label="i"> <text>declined the nomination; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>died or become disqualified and the provisions of this article do not require that the name of the nominee nonetheless be submitted to the voters;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>each nominee who has qualified for a presidential election under Title 8, Subtitle 5 of this article; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>each incumbent justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland or the Appellate Court of Maryland whose name is required to be submitted to the voters for continuance in office under Article IV, § 5A of the Maryland Constitution.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In accordance with Title 9, Subtitle 2 of this article, the State Board shall certify to each local board the name of each nominee who has qualified for the general election ballot as the nominee’s name is to appear on the ballots in that county.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1301" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="13" subtitle_name="Late Vacancies Before the General Election"> <level label="a"> <text>Except for a candidate or nominee to fill a vacancy for the office of Governor or Lieutenant Governor, this subtitle applies to a candidate or nominee to fill a vacancy for any public office subject to this title.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A nominee to fill a vacancy for Governor or Lieutenant Governor is subject to the requirements of Subtitle 10 of this title.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1302" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="13" subtitle_name="Late Vacancies Before the General Election"> <level label="a"> <text>A certificate of designation may not be filed later than 10 days before the day of the general election.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If the name of a nominee who has died, declined the nomination, or been disqualified appears on the ballot and receives a number of votes that would have been sufficient for election if the nominee had not died, declined, or been disqualified for the nomination, the vacancy thereby created shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>deemed to have occurred after the day of the general election; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>filled in accordance with this article or other provisions of law.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gel" article_name="Election Law" number="5-1303" title_number="5" title_name="Candidates" subtitle_number="13" subtitle_name="Late Vacancies Before the General Election"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>If a nominee dies, declines the nomination, or is disqualified after the primary election but before a certificate of nomination is issued by the appropriate board with which candidates for that office must file a certificate of candidacy under § 5-302 of this title, the canvass and certification of the primary election results shall proceed as though the candidate had not died, declined the nomination, or been disqualified.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If, following the canvass and certification, the individual who is certified as the nominee has died, declined the nomination, or been disqualified, a successor nominee may be named in the manner provided by law.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If a winning candidate dies, declines the office, or becomes disqualified after the general election but before the certification of the general election results, the canvass and certification shall proceed as though the candidate had not died, declined the office, or been disqualified.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If, following the canvass and certification of the general election results, the individual who is declared elected has died, declined the office, or been disqualified, the office shall be declared vacant and filled in the manner provided by law.</text> </level> </level> </section>