The County Legislature or Executive Board is the governing body of the county and exercises broad policy-making authority. The Board is charged with implementing policy and overseeing the county budget process and allocation.
Eligibility requirements
No person may be popularly elected to and serve in any office in the State unless he is registered to vote in the geographical area represented by the office (S.C. Constitution, Article VI, Section 1). A person convicted of a felony or an offense against the election laws is not qualified to file for or hold office, unless it has been fifteen years since the completion of the sentence for the crime or unless the person has been pardoned (S.C. Constitution, Article VI, Section 1). Candidate's qualifications for all offices, are determined at the time of the election and not at the time of filing or nomination. Some individuals may be restricted from running for public office by the federal Hatch Act. The Act applies to federal employees and others receiving federal funds and restricts their participation in campaigns for partisan offices. For detailed information regarding the Hatch Act, visit the website of the U.S. Office of Special Counsel. Candidates must be 18 years old.
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FAQ
How often is County Legislature//Executive Board elected?
The position of County Legislature//Executive Board is typically elected every 4 years.
What does it mean for an election to be partisan?
Partisan elections require candidates to declare a party affiliation, like Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, or Independent.
What are the filing requirements to get on the ballot in Beaufort County, SC?
Candidates for offices with a party primary are asked to submit three copies of a completed Statement of Intention of Candidacy/Party Pledge form (SICPP) available at scVOTES.org to the county electoral commission. Please wait to sign the form in front of an election official unless you are having the form notarized. Candidates must also submit a filing fee of $459.36 made out to their respective state political party (Cashier's checks and money orders are acceptable. Cash will not be accepted). South Carolina law further requires that candidates complete a Statement of Economic Interest and submit it electronically to the State Ethics Commission website before March 30th by noon or during the 14 day filing period for elections that do not coincide with the November general.
Where do I submit my candidate paperwork?
Submit paperwork to the County Board of Elections' office.
Where is the filing office?
15 John Galt Road (29906-4290), Post Office Drawer 1228, Beaufort, SC 29901-1228.
How can I get in touch with the filing office?
You can contact the filing office by calling 843-255-6900.
How do I get started running for County Legislature//Executive Board?
You can start running for County Legislature//Executive Board by checking to ensure you meet all filing deadlines and requirements. Next, you can prepare to file for office and start planning your campaign strategy. Get in touch with our team of campaign experts for help with any step of the campaign process!
Is there a primary or runoff election for this office?
The next election for County Legislature//Executive Board includes a primary, but not a runoff election.
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