Unaffiliated is different from a named party
In California, voters who register without stating a political party preference are called No Party Preference voters. The American Independent Party is a named qualified party; selecting that party is different from selecting no party preference.
Source: California Secretary of State: primary elections.
The office matters
A nonpartisan office is a category of office, not another word for an unaffiliated candidate. Ballot access and primary procedures also vary by office and location. Don’t apply a rule you read about one type of contest to another.
Use the California Secretary of State’s detailed explanation for California terminology and confirm current instructions with the relevant election office.
Separate three questions
- How is your voter registration recorded?
- What kind of office and election are you considering?
- What candidacy and ballot process applies to that office?
Write down the official answer and its source. This site does not determine your eligibility, provide filing advice or set requirements for you.
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