Method of Nomination for U.S. House of Representatives, 8th CD
Candidates for office must meet certain qualifications and are required to file specific ballot access documents in order to qualify for the ballot. Paperwork and instructions are available on the Virginia Department of Elections page.
Filing procedures for candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives were changed to clarify that signatures collected before certification of the April 21, 2026 special election may be accepted if they are from qualified voters of the Commonwealth. The new filing date is May 1, 2026, at 12 Noon. Please file your petitions at 12 Noon.
KEY REQUIREMENTS:
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File the following with the Virginia Department of Elections (ELECT) between 01/02/2026 and 5:00 PM, 05/26/2026.
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Certificate of Candidate Qualification (Federal Offices form ELECT - 501(FED).
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Primary Filing Fee ($3,480).
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File the following documents with your political party Congressional District Chair between noon (12:00 PM), 05/01/2026 and 5:00 PM on 05/26/2026. All of these documents must be filed at the same time.
- Original Receipt for Primary Filing Fee from the Virginia Dept. of Elections for $3,480.
- Declaration of Candidacy (form SBE 505/520).
- Petitions of 1,000 Signatures from Qualified Voters (form SBE 506/521).
Filing Location will be at the Arlington Central Library on Friday, May 1 at 12 Noon. The Primary will be on August 4.
FULL INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE ON THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ELECTIONS WEBSITE