The number of calendar days left between a vacancy of a public office and the date that the term is regularly scheduled to end. Unexpired terms may be filled through an appointment or special election.
What is an unexpired term?
An unexpired term is the portion of an elected or appointed office’s scheduled term that remains after the position becomes vacant. If an official resigns, dies, is removed, or otherwise leaves early, the remaining time is the unexpired term. State or local law determines how that vacancy is filled.
What does a two-year unexpired term mean?
A two-year unexpired term means approximately two years remain in the original officeholder’s scheduled term. A person elected or appointed to fill that vacancy normally serves only the remaining portion rather than beginning a brand-new full term, unless the law governing that particular office provides a different arrangement.
How is an unexpired term filled?
An unexpired term may be filled by appointment, a special election, or another vacancy procedure set by the relevant constitution, statute, charter, or election law. The replacement usually serves until the original term ends or until a successor is elected and qualified. The exact process depends on the office and jurisdiction.
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The number of calendar days left between a vacancy of a public office and the date that the term is regularly scheduled to end. Unexpired terms may be filled through an appointment or special election.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Unexpired Term. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/unexpired-term
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