Party chairs could cancel vacancy meetings with one candidate

The county party chair could withdraw the meeting notice and choose the sole candidate without a caucus vote. This covers certain local and school board vacancies tied to a major political party when only one person seeks the seat. The caucus would not have to meet. If the notice is withdrawn, the caucus chair must make a reasonable effort to tell members the meeting is canceled. If enacted, this provision would take effect on July 1, 2026.

Candidates must file a declaration of candidacy with either the caucus chair or the circuit court clerk. This covers people seeking temporary appointments under these caucus rules. It excludes vacancies a county party chair fills directly under a separate rule. A circuit court clerk who receives a filing must send a copy to the caucus chair that same day. Candidates must file at least 72 hours before the scheduled caucus. If enacted, this provision would take effect on July 1, 2026.