Bill > HB2480

This bill reinstates the presidential preference primary in Missouri, establishing that it will be held on the first Tuesday in March of each presidential election year. The bill outlines a comprehensive process for candidates to be included on the primary ballot, requiring either a $5,000 filing fee or a petition signed by 5,000 registered Missouri voters. Candidates must file their request between specific time windows, and the secretary of state will create and announce an official list of candidates for each established political party. Voters will be allowed to receive the ballot of only one political party, and each ballot will include an option for an "uncommitted" vote. The primary will be conducted similarly to other primary elections, with the state covering most costs and sharing expenses with any other political subdivisions holding elections on the same day. After the primary, state political parties will conduct caucuses and conventions to choose delegates for national conventions. The bill also modifies existing election laws to accommodate this new primary, including allowing presidential candidates to file for the primary without being prohibited from running for other offices simultaneously.

Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2480&year=2026&code=R