A term used to describe an individual who has been sworn into public office and is currently serving in the position.
What is hold office?
The term Hold Office refers to to occupy and exercise the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a public office for the term or period authorized by law. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
What does hold office mean in government?
In election administration, Hold Office is applied according to its defined purpose: to occupy and exercise the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a public office for the term or period authorized by law. 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.
How is hold office connected to elections?
In election administration, Hold Office is applied according to its defined purpose: to occupy and exercise the duties, powers, and responsibilities of a public office for the term or period authorized by law. 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.
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A term used to describe an individual who has been sworn into public office and is currently serving in the position.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Hold Office. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved September 3, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/hold-office
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