Here are key dates to know for Akron's 2023 mayoral election
With questions looming about whether Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan will seek a third term in the 2023 election, here's the timetable that will figure into the decision-making for potential candidates.
Filing window is open
Two active campaigns are on file with the Summit County Board of Elections — political activist Sage Lewis and North Hill resident Joshua Schaffer. This paperwork is necessary to accept donations.
Some other names also have been floated as potential candidates in local political circles as decision-time nears for hopefuls to launch fund-raising efforts.
Deadline for spring primary
Candidates must file their petitions to run in the May partisan primary by 4 p.m. Feb. 1, 2023. Mayoral candidacy petitions require at least 50 valid signatures.
Primary election
For a City Hall dominated for nearly four decades by Democrats, the May 2, 2023, primary could effectively decide the next mayor. No Republican has served as mayor since Roy Ray lost to Tom Sawyer in the 1983 election.
Deadline to run as an independent
Candidates have until May 1, 2023 — the day before the spring primary — to file to run as an independent in the November election.
General election
Akron voters will go to the polls Nov. 7, 2023, to decide the mayoral race. Every seat on Akron City Council will also be up for election that day.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Key dates to know for Akron's next mayoral election in 2023
