The decision to run for public office is deeply personal and a bedrock of our representative democracy.  It should reflect discernment and a commitment not only to the election but more importantly to the position entrusted by the citizenry.
 
I believe an individual should make a choice to run for only one office during an election cycle and not make a political calculation by seeking more than one office at once.  To that end, I will introduce legislation to prevent candidates from appearing on the ballot for more than one public office during a single election cycle.
 
The cornerstone of this is principle.  But a practical argument is to reduce voter confusion, reduce the likelihood of costly special elections, and, by default, encouraging more citizen participation in pursuing elective office.  In addition to special election costs totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars, reducing the number of the special elections will also assist our burdened county election offices.
  
My legislation will permit candidates to file petitions for ballot access for only one public office during an election cycle.  This legislation will still permit individuals seeking public office to simultaneously be on the ballot for state or county political party positions, which are typically volunteer.
 
Our Commonwealth is home to an abundance of highly qualified citizens who can competently fill every position on the ballot without candidates doubling up on multiple offices.
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this legislation.