Running for Office in Arizona: A Quick Overview

Running for office in Arizona requires organization, deadlines, and signatures.

• First, candidates must form a campaign committee by filing a Statement of Organization with the Secretary of State once they raise or spend $1,300. This allows them to legally fundraise and operate a campaign.

• Next, candidates must gather a required number of nomination petition signatures from eligible voters. The number varies by office, and signatures are the only way to qualify for the ballot. Many candidates use Arizona’s E-Qual system, which allows voters to sign petitions electronically.

• Finally, during the official filing period (March 7–April 6, 2026), candidates must submit their nomination paper, collected signatures, and a personal financial disclosure form.

• Independent and write-in candidates follow similar filing requirements but appear only on the general election ballot (independents) or on the official write-in list.

• In short: form a committee, collect signatures, file on time — and they are on the ballot.