The recent revelation regarding computers within the PACleanSweep is urging all Pennsylvanians to be aware of an important upcoming deadline on the election calendar. With the petitioning and challenge periods now closed for registered Republicans and Democrats, April 17 looms large for those who wish to run for office as an independent or under a minor party’s banner.

Pennsylvania’s “sore loser” law mandates that any individual who runs as an independent or minor party candidate may not participate in the primary election as a voter or a candidate. Prospective non-Republican or -Democratic candidates must be registered with an affiliation other than a “D” or “R” by next Monday, April 17.

“This is the last chance for those who are truly dedicated to changing government in Pennsylvania,” said Russ Diamond, PACleanSweep founder. “Once the deadline passes, registered Republicans and Democrats can’t run as an independent or with a minor party affiliation.

“There are a lot of races across the Commonwealth where the incumbent currently has no challenger whatsoever. No one should breeze through an election cycle without a challenge. That’s why we have the sorry state of affairs that brought us the pay raise and other horrible legislation.”

An ongoing informal poll on the PACleanSweep website reveals that over 95 percent of respondents indicate they would be willing to vote for a credible independent or minor party candidate if there is no other competition for their incumbent in November.

Independent and minor party candidates have until August 1 to file petitions with the Department of State in order to get their names on November’s general election ballot. Unlike the requirements for major party candidates, any registered voter may sign a petition for an independent or minor party bid.

Those interested in changing their registration are urged to do so by visiting their local Board of Elections.

“While we have great expectations for our Republican and Democratic candidates and we’re confident they’ll fair well in the primary, credible independent and minor party candidates present an opportunity for a second wave of electoral pressure on a legislature which is overdue for massive institutional change,” added Diamond.

Directory of Local Boards of Elections

PACleanSweep is a non-partisan effort dedicated to defeating incumbent elected officials in Pennsylvania and replacing them with true public servants. For more information, please visit www.PACleanSweep.com.