The Spring 2012 election cycle will begin with an Endorsement Period, a period following the release of the candidate list (3/15/2012) until before the commencement of the Monetary Campaigning Period (3/21/2012). This limited window creates an opportunity for candidates to seek endorsements and for groups to make their endorsements effective.

The NEC does not regulate this process, but in this section you will find a description of the process as well as some useful resources that we have included to inform you of traditional practices. You may select the appropriate link, according to your interests, below.

What is an endorsement?

An endorsement is a public display of support -- in this case an on-campus group's display of support of you, the candidate. Endorsements can be made in a number of ways: through a group's list-serv, through a facebook group, etc. [Note: Groups may NOT, however, spend any money on you to show their support]. Endorsements will allow you to communicate your platform through the support of on-campus groups. It is an effective way for you to get your name out to voters before you are allowed to spend money.

Below are some suggested steps to help you seek endorsements this Spring:

1. At the commencement of the Endorsement Period (3/15/2012), you are encouraged to complete our suggested application, or one drafted by the group you contact. In order to post your endorsement on the DP's online elections center, have the group endorsing you notify the Vice Chair for Elections at vcelections@gmail.com.

2. Group contact information: On this form, you will find the contact information for some groups interested in endorsing (note: this is not an extensive list. You may reach out to any on-campus group not listed here). We encourage you to contact them for a potential endorsement. They may contact you during the Endorsement Period as well.

You have the opportunity to endorse candidates for UA/CB.

You may be thinking, "Why Should I endorse a candidate?"

It is in your group's best interest to investigate and endorse the candidate of your choosing; this is the best opportunity your organization may have in accessing a direct link to the administration. Remember, these candidates will serve on bodies that vote on resolutions, the budget, and many other issues, so these positions are extremely relevant.

Below are some suggested steps to aid your group in the endorsement process this spring.

1. Let candidates know that you are interested in endorsing by providing your group's name and contact information on this form. The candidate list will be sent to this contact after the candidate's meeting (3/15/2012) for you to reach individuals. Candidates will also be able to contact this address during the designated Endorsements Period.

2. Be sure to provide an official endorsement to your desired candidates.

• How do I make my endorsement official? The candidate is encouraged to complete our suggested application, or a similar questionnaire as created by your group. Your group must send the name of your endorsee to the Vice Chair of Elections vcelections@gmail.com by the end of the endorsement period (3/22/12).
• What makes my endorsement "official"? Only official endorsements will be posted on the DP online candidate center by the end of the Endorsement Period.

What makes my endorsement "official"? Only official endorsements will be posted on the DP online candidate center by the end of the Endorsement Period.

3. What can you start doing now? Decide how you will endorse candidates.You can use the NEC's suggested application to create a questionnaire tailored to your organization. Make the necessary preparations for your process.

An important reminder: If your group chooses to endorse candidates, you may NOT spend money on behalf of candidates.