Primary definition
A vote for a candidate that was not listed on the ballot. In some jurisdictions, voters may do this by using a marking device to physically write their choice on the ballot or they may use a keypad, touch screen, or other electronic means to enter the name.
Also known aswrite-in · write-in ballot · write-in candidate vote · manual entry vote · unlisted candidate vote
2 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
— EAC Glossary of TermsView source
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EAC
U.S. Election Assistance Commission
A vote for a candidate that was not listed on the ballot. In some jurisdictions, voters may do this by using a marking device to physically write their choice on the ballot or they may use a keypad, touch screen, or other electronic means to enter the name.
EAC Glossary of Terms · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Write In Vote. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/write-in-vote
Sources
2 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026
01
EAC Glossary of Terms
EAC Glossary of Terms
High consensus
02
Electronic Voting Glossary
Electronic Voting Glossary
Disputed
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