Primary Election

Write-in votes are not allowed in a primary election. (Minn. Stat. 204B.36, subd. 2)

General Election

Candidates for County, State, or Federal Office – A write-in candidate for county, state or federal office must file a written request for his or her votes to be counted with the filing officer for that office. This request must be filed no later than October 30, 2012 (the seventh day before the general election). (Minn. Stat. 204B.09, subd. 3(a)) A candidate for governor must include the name of a candidate for lieutenant governor. 

     Request Write-In Votes Be Counted - State & Federal Offices
     Request Write-In Votes Be Counted - County Offices

     2012 Registered Write-ins for Federal and State Offices

Candidates for Statutory City, Township, and School District Office – Write-in votes for candidates for statutory city, township, or school district are counted without the need for a written request.

Candidates for Charter City Office – Although there is no statutory requirement for candidates for city office to file a written request for write-in votes to be counted, it is possible that some charter cities may have additional requirements of candidates. A candidate should check the city’s charter for possible additional requirements for write-in candidates.

Frequently Asked Question: Write-ins and Stickers

Q: Can voters place pre-printed stickers on their ballot in the write-in space?
A: No.  From Minnesota Rules 8230.1450: "A sticker may not be affixed to a ballot that will be placed into a ballot box or ballot counter for any reason."