(1) A single decision or set of associated decisions being put before the voters (for example, the option of candidates to fill a particular public office or the approval or disapproval of a constitutional amendment). This term encompasses other terms such as "race," "question," and "issue" that are sometimes used to refer to specific kinds of contests. (2) A legal challenge of an election outcome.
What is contest?
The term Contest refers to a race, office, measure, question, or other decision presented to voters on a ballot; in legal usage, contest can also mean a formal challenge. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How does contest work?
In election administration, Contest is applied according to its defined purpose: a race, office, measure, question, or other decision presented to voters on a ballot. Officials then use the relevant eligibility, filing, ballot, timing, notice, or procedural rules for that election. The exact process can differ by office, election type, and jurisdiction.
When is contest used in an election?
The term Contest is used when the relevant election, security, or administrative process calls for a race, office, measure, question, or other decision presented to voters on a ballot. The exact trigger, timing, and responsible official are set by the governing procedure or standard.
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(1) A single decision or set of associated decisions being put before the voters (for example, the option of candidates to fill a particular public office or the approval or disapproval of a constitutional amendment). This term encompasses other terms such as "race," "question," and "issue" that are sometimes used to refer to specific kinds of contests. (2) A legal challenge of an election outcome.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Contest. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/contest
Sources
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High consensus
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Disputed
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