(WHTM)– Candidates in Pennsylvania will start circulating nomination petitions on Tuesday.
Tuesday, February 17, is the first day to circulate and file nomination petitions in Pennsylvania for the May 19 primary election. Candidates, campaign staff, and supporters will come door-to-door, set up on street corners, or elsewhere to ask the public to sign petitions.
Candidates who meet signature requirements will gain access to the 2026 General Primary Ballot. This year’s primary will feature the Pennsylvania gubernatorial race, Congressional Races, and Senate races.
The following list outlines the signature requirements and fees to get on the ballot for certain government positions.
Office
Fee
Signature Requirement
Statement of Financial Interest
Governor
$200
2,000 (including at least 100 from each of at least 10 counties)
Yes
Lt. Governor
$200
1,000 (including at least 100 from each of at least 5 counties)
Yes
Representative in Congress
$150
1,000
No
Senator in the General Assembly
$100
500
Yes
Representative in the General Assembly
$100
300
Yes
Member of State Committee
$25
100
No
One Pennsylvania lawmaker is proposing a way to make it easier for Pennsylvanians to get on the ballot. The bill, proposed by State Rep. Ben Waxman (D-182), would lower the signature requirements and eliminate filing fees. It has not yet been submitted for introduction.
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