multiple nonpartisan candidates; primary

HB 2844 allows nonpartisan candidates (those not affiliated with any recognized political party) to appear on the general election ballot by collecting signatures through a nomination petition instead of participating in partisan primaries. To qualify, a candidate must gather signatures from at least 3% of non-partisan registered voters in their district, with signers unable to have supported other candidates in the same primary. This bill directly affects voters seeking office without party affiliation and alters how they gain ballot access in Arizona. The bill was introduced in the 2025 legislative session but failed to advance after committee review on February 19, 2025.