Halp! Can I still get on the November ballot?

Yes you can.

NOMINATION PAPERS are filed by candidates running as independents, who want to be on the General election ballot.

Nomination papers can be signed by registered voters of ANY PARTY who live in the district.

The number of signatures required is based on a kooky formula in the Election Code. The candidate needs signatures equal to 2% of the largest vote cast for any candidate elected, who ran for ANY office, in that district, in the most recent election.

Plus there's something in there about being able to stand on one foot, while patting your head and rubbing your stomach in a circular motion...

People, you're on your own with the math on this. For more info. check out PA's Dept. of State site, call & bug them with your questions.

Collecting Nomination Papers signatures always starts on the 10th Weds. before the primary, (this year that date was Feb. 13, 2008). The filing deadline is on August 1, 2008.

{Perhaps we're more familiar with Nomination Petitions round these parts. These are circulated by candidates seeking to get on the primary ballot. Because almost all of our electeds are Democrats, many consider the primary the 'real election'.}