The following is provided for the information of potential candidates with respect to allowed activities in the pre-writ period (i.e. before the election is called) for the upcoming General Election, on or before October 14, 2025.
Can I raise money or ask for contributions as a candidate?
- No, you may only raise money or ask for contributions after you are officially nominated with Elections NL as a candidate in the Provincial General Election.
- Nominations open when the writ is issued. Soliciting or accepting contributions as a candidate is not allowed in the pre-writ period.
Can I spend my own money for the campaign in the pre-writ period?
- Yes, you may spend your own money to fund election-related expenses of your campaign.
- Upon official nomination as a candidate with Elections NL you may use contributions to your campaign to reimburse any personal expenditures.
Can I spend money on signs, rent an office, or buy election supplies before the election is called?
- Yes, you can incur expenses for election-related materials, supplies, signs, and set up an office before the election is called.
- All pre-writ election-related expenses count towards your campaign spending limit for your electoral district.
- Spending limits will be posted when the writ of election is issued.
Can I put up signs or advertise before the election starts?
- Yes, you can put up signs and advertise before the election starts.
- All pre-writ election-related expenditures, including any money spent on signs and advertising, count towards your campaign spending limit for your electoral district.
Are there any restrictions to where I can put up signs before the writ is dropped?
- Elections NL does not restrict where signs can be put up.
- We strongly encourage candidates and potential candidates to consult with local authorities (e.g. municipal governments, private companies, etc.) on any rules and regulations they may have about campaign signs. We expect all candidates to follow all rules and regulations about signage.
- Signs or advertising may not be put up on any Provincial property or infrastructure in accordance with Provincial regulations.
Are there any restrictions on advertising in the pre-writ period?
- Any advertising or signs must include an authorization statement from the Chief Financial Officer or Agent of the candidate to comply with the Elections Act, 1991.
Can I open a bank account for my campaign before the election?
- Yes, you can open a campaign bank account prior to the election.
- A campaign bank account is not required; however, Elections NL recommends that candidates use a separate bank account to track their election finances.
Can I knock on doors, call, text, or email potential voters in the pre-writ period?
- Yes, you can campaign in the pre-writ period.
- You may not solicit donations prior to being officially nominated with Elections NL.
Can I recruit campaign workers in the pre-writ period?
- Yes, you can.
For more resources, visit https://www.elections.gov.nl.ca/resources/forms/.
Potential candidates are encouraged to ask any questions or seek clarification from Elections NL on the topics covered or other areas of interest. Elections NL can be contacted by telephone (Local or Toll-Free): (1-877) 729-7987 or by email at oceo@electionsnl.ca.