November 7, 2023: General Election Contests

Historically, City Council and School Board contests are independent and non-partisan. Other contests are likely partisan but can have independent candidates.

• Falls Church City Council, 3 open seats
• Falls Church School Board, 3 open seats 
• Virginia State Senate, 37th District
• Virginia House of Delegates, 13th District
• Commonwealth’s Attorney, shared with Arlington
• Clerk of the Court, shared with Arlington

Want to run for office? Here’s what you need to do.

First decide if you’re running independently or want the nomination of a political party. 

• If seeking the nomination of a political party, contact the local chairperson of that party. 
• If running independently, follow the steps below.
  • How to Run for Local Office
  • Downloadable Flyer on Running for Local Office

Running independently? Read on! 

Ballot Access

Getting your name on the ballot.

• Tuesday, June 20 at 7 p.m. (Primary Election): Deadline for independent candidates to file for November 7 General Election Ballot
• Required Forms (in submission order)
  • Certificate of Candidate Qualification – Local Offices
  • Commonwealth of Virginia Declaration of Candidacy
  • Once a candidate has filed above two forms, then submit Petition-of-Qualified-Voters-SBE-506_521_letter.pdf (virginia.gov)
  • Statement of Economic Interests for first time candidates due by June 20

Reminders

• Every page of petitions must be notarized. Schedule an appointment with Voter Registrar’s Office in City Hall for notary services.
• Don’t wait until June 20 to submit all petitions! Notarize petition pages as completed for verification and guidance on Ballot Access progress.
• Tuesday, June 27: Official ballot list of candidates published.

Campaign Finance 

Accounting of raising and spending funds, materials, and services to advocate that people vote for you! 

• Ongoing: Start now
• Must file a Statement of Organization (SOO) within 10 days of any of the following:
  • Accepting a contribution (money, materials, or services) 
  • Spending any money of your own or others 
  • Paying a filing fee for a party nomination 
  • Filing a Candidate Statement of Qualification 
  • Designation of a Committee
  • Naming a committee treasurer (candidate can be own treasure)
  • Designation of a campaign depository

Helpful Links

• Virginia Department of Elections - Campaign Finance Filing
• Statement of Organization: Open an account with the Virginia Department of Elections, submit electronically, and then print a copy to file in City of Falls Church offices. 

Key Dates