An act relating to an option to vote "None of these candidates" on primary and general election ballots
S.137 would require Vermont primary and general election ballots to include a selectable option for “None of these candidates.” If a voter chooses that option, the ballot would be counted as an affirmative vote for “None of these candidates,” rather than treated as a blank or undervote. The bill also directs that the option appear alongside candidate names on both primary and general election ballots, with matching oval selection marks and accompanying instructions to voters.
The bill further amends Vermont’s election-counting rules so that a vote for “None of these candidates” is recorded on the tally sheet and given the same significance as a vote for a candidate. It also clarifies how overvotes are handled when a voter marks both a candidate and “None of these candidates.” The act is set to take effect July 1, 2025, and its introduction notes an intent to later align legislative rules so that this vote is treated consistently in determining whether statewide candidates receive a constitutionally required majority.
If enacted, the bill would change Vermont election law by requiring the Secretary of State and local election officials to add a new ballot choice on primary and general election ballots and by changing vote-tabulation procedures to count that choice separately from blank votes. It would affect ballot design, voter instructions, tally sheets, and the treatment of overvotes, and it could influence statewide contests where a majority vote is constitutionally relevant, particularly for governor, lieutenant governor, and treasurer.
The bill’s text suggests a reform-oriented, voter-choice approach, aiming to give voters a formal way to express that none of the listed candidates is acceptable. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no documented debate or vote history to indicate broader legislative sentiment. Based on the proposal itself, the measure appears to be framed as an election-administration and voter-expression bill rather than a partisan policy change.
The main potential point of contention is how a “None of these candidates” vote should be treated in relation to blank ballots, overvotes, and constitutional majority requirements. Supporters would likely view the option as a clearer expression of voter dissatisfaction and a more accurate count of voter intent, while opponents may worry it could complicate ballot design, tabulation, or majority calculations in statewide races. The bill also anticipates a future change to legislative joint rules, indicating that implementation may require coordination beyond the statutory amendments themselves.