Circulator

Primary definition

An "individual, whether paid or unpaid, who solicits signatures for a recall petition." N.J. Stat. Ann. §19:27A-3.

Also known aspetition circulator · signature gatherer · petition gatherer · canvasser · petition carrier · signature collector
2 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
Electronic Voting GlossaryView source
People also ask

What does a petition circulator do?

The term Circulator refers to a person who gathers signatures on a petition and may be required to witness signing, provide information, and complete a circulator affidavit. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.

What is a circulator affidavit?

A circulator affidavit is a sworn or certified statement completed by the person who gathered petition signatures. It commonly attests to facts such as the circulator's identity, witnessing of signatures, compliance with circulation rules, or the circumstances in which signatures were collected. Required wording, notarization, eligibility, and filing rules vary by jurisdiction.

Do petition-circulator rules vary by jurisdiction?

Yes, the rules or practical use of Circulator can vary by jurisdiction or governing framework. The core glossary meaning is a person who gathers signatures on a petition and may be required to witness signing, provide information, and complete a circulator affidavit.

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Carnegie Mellon University

An "individual, whether paid or unpaid, who solicits signatures for a recall petition." N.J. Stat. Ann. §19:27A-3.

Electronic Voting Glossary · 2024

Cite this term

Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Circulator. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/circulator

Sources

2 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026

01

Electronic Voting Glossary
Electronic Voting Glossary

High consensus

View source

02

EAC Glossary of Terms
EAC Glossary of Terms

Disputed

View source

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