Opinion Number ( 1991 )

Dear Representative Dastugue:

You have requested an opinion of this office relative to whether voters may indicate their preference for a write-in candidate in the General Election of November 16, 1991.

Since 1975 Louisiana election law has not provided for write-in candidates. Consequently, the voting machines and absentee ballots have not provided a mechanism by which a voter may cast a vote for a write-in candidate. Additionally, should a voter attempt to write-in the name of a candidate on an absentee ballot, this would place the entire ballot of that voter in jeopardy of being void because it contained a distinguishing mark or feature thereon. (R.S. 18:1315)

Sincerely,

WILLIAM J. GUSTE, JR. Attorney General

BY: KENNETH C. DEJEAN First Assistant Attorney General

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