ASI Election Code

Home Discover ASI Public Documents Forms & Policies Student Government Forms & Policies ASI Election Code

Associated Students, Incorporated of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Article I. Name

The name of this Committee is the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee.

Article II. Authority and Adoption

The ASI Election Code is written under the authority of Section 4.3.5., “ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee,” of the Bylaws of the Associated Students, Inc. (ASI). It supplements Section 3, “Membership Elections,” of the ASI Bylaws.

This ASI Election Code and any amendments are effective upon approval by a majority vote of the ASI Board of Directors and replaces all previous ASI Election Codes and amendments.

If any provision in the ASI Election Code is inconsistent with the ASI Bylaws, the ASI Bylaws are controlling.

Article III. Purpose

The ASI Election Code governs all ASI Elections including the Annual Spring Election and Special Elections.

Article IV. General Statement

ASI student elections are a subset of the educational experience for students at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Student elections are a learning laboratory for students. Student elections allow those who aspire to public service or public life, or who want to gain experience and expertise in better understanding how democracy functions, an opportunity to learn how to work within the democratic process. The ASI Election Code’s policies and procedures promote the educational mission of the University, prevent violations of reasonable campus rules, avoid interference with the opportunity of other students to obtain an education, and minimize distractions from the University’s larger education mission.

Article V. Definitions

The following definitions shall apply to terms used in the ASI Election Code:

Board; Board Member; Board of Directors; The terms “Board,” “Board Member,” “Board of Directors,” and Director mean the student-elected representatives who serve as the corporate governing board of ASI.
The term “Member” means a student of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo eligible to vote in student elections.
The term “Officer,” means a Member currently holding the position of ASI President, Chair of the ASI Board of Directors, or Chair of the University Union Advisory Board.
Pre-Candidate. The term “Pre-Candidate” means a Member who takes action (whether written or oral) to seek election before or by the filing deadline as an Officer or Board Member before the Office of the Dean of Students decides eligibility.
The term “Candidate” means a Member who has filed a Candidate Packet under this ASI Election Code and is eligible for election as determined by the Office of the Dean of Students.
Write-In The term “Write-In Candidate” means a Member who takes action to seek election as an Officer or Board Member, who has not filed a Candidate Packet within the candidacy deadline as prescribed in the Election Timeline.
Support; To Influence the Election of a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In Candidate. The term “support” means financial support, or any other direct or indirect contribution or assistance, and includes an individual’s own volunteered personal time, where the purpose, object or foreseeable effect is to influence the election of a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In “To influence the election of a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In Candidate” means any efforts at vote getting. Such activities include press conferences, press releases, campaign speeches, electronic communications design, Social Media, production and distribution of campaign posters, flyers, leaflets, apparel, bumper stickers and buttons, and all other campaign promotional activities which enhance or diminish a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In Candidate’s prospects for election.
Electronic Communications; Social Media. The term “Electronic Communications” means electronic mail and other electronic communications including e-mail, instant messaging, chat rooms, blogging, bulletin boards, on-line journals, Social Media, and other similar The term “Social Media” includes Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and all other mediums of social networking.
Media Communications; The term “Media Communications,” means any communication, whether by means of Electronic Communications, in person or otherwise, intended for or otherwise directed to the media. The term “Media,” as used herein, shall mean any news outlet run by a campus-based organization, a student, a non-student, a public, or a private entity which delivers communications to the public or Cal Poly student body through radio, television, newspaper, magazine, blog, Social Media, or any other means.
Campaign The term “Campaign Worker,” means any individual, whether declared (as disclosed in the Candidate Packet) or undeclared, who provides support for a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate whom the Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate has expressly or impliedly authorized to provide support to their campaign for election.
Active Campaigning; Non-Oral. The term “Active Campaigning,” as used herein, shall mean any non-oral public display or distribution of specific information (physical or electronic) about any Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate with the intent to influence the election of a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In Candidate. Active Campaigning does not include statements recorded in an organization’s standard minutes or agendas, official ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee filing documents or forms, organizational meetings of Campaign Workers and Managers, arrangements for campaign publicity, or the right of a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate to appear before any organized group prior to the beginning of Active The term “Non-Oral,” as used herein, shall mean any communication of information that is not capable of being heard. Non-oral communications do not include communications made to the Media when such communications are necessary to comply with the ASI Election Code.
Media Media Day is an ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee sponsored event to introduce Candidates and/or Write-In Candidates to the Media. This day will be scheduled to occur after all Candidates’ eligibility has been verified.
Physical campaign material: The term “physical campaign material” means any tangible and in-person form of campaign material to solicit votes for a Candidate and/or Write-In Materials include, but are not limited to, banners, posters, pins, clothing, or other paraphernalia.

Article VI. ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee Overview

Section A. The ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee serves under the authority of the ASI Board of Directors and the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors.

Section B. Responsibilities

The ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee, with the oversight of the Dean of Students’ Representative shall:

Formulate any special regulations governing student elections via the ASI Election Code and execute them after approval by the ASI Board of Directors.
Submit an Election Timeline for ASI Board of Directors approval by the first board meeting of winter quarter.
Submit proposed Candidate Packets (ASI President, Board of Directors, and Write-In Candidates Packets) to the ASI Board of Directors for approval by the second board meeting of the winter quarter.
Verify the eligibility of all Candidates and Write-In Candidates for ASI President and the ASI Board of Directors.
Prepare the
Arrange electronic voting
Prepare and distribute publicity for
Enforce compliance with election
Conduct the
Obtain the election
Report the results and any possible campaign or election irregularities to the ASI Board of Directors.

Section C. Voting Member Conflict of Interest (ASI Bylaws – Section 4.3.5.2)

Appointment to the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee shall be in accordance with the ASI Bylaws

If a voting member of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee plans to be a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate in the next student election, that member must submit in writing to the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors their intention to contest in the election prior to The member shall be removed and replaced with a new voting member immediately after the letter is received.
If a voting member of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee plans to be a Campaign Manager in the next student election, that member must submit in writing to the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors their intention to serve as a Campaign Manager. The ASI Officer of the applicable branch of the voting member shall designate a proxy to replace their vote. The Office of the Dean of Students Representative, along with the Chair of the Disciplinary Subcommittee, will review any complaints received and, as appropriate, appoint a voting member to serve as the proxy voting member of any Campaign Manager and/or Worker that may have a conflict of interest with an election Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In Candidate.
If a voting member is a Campaign Worker in the next student election, that member is required to maintain an unbiased However, if they are unable to remain unbiased, that member may send a request to the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors to move them to a different committee and/or another committee member may submit a formal complaint to the Chair of the Recruitment & Elections Committee. This complaint will be handled in accordance with the ASI Election Code.

Article VII. General Rules of Elections

Section A. Notice of Elections (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.4.)

Notice of Annual Spring Election. The ASI Board of Directors shall give Members notice of the Annual Spring The notice shall specify the date and time of the election, the names of eligible individuals who have submitted a Candidate Packet to be Directors or ASI Officers, and the general nature of any other business to be transacted. The notice shall be given to Members in the following manner:
1. Publication with the Mustang Media Group, a minimum of once a week for three weeks preceding the election.
2. Distribution and posting of flyers around campus at least three weeks preceding the election.
3. Distribution of information to Cal Poly Recognized Student Organizations at least three weeks preceding the election.
4. Distribution of information to each currently chartered Academic College Club Council at least three weeks preceding the election.
Notice of Special Whenever Members are to vote at a Special Election, the ASI Board of Directors shall give Members notice of the Special Election that specifies the date and time of the election, and the general nature of the business to be transacted. The notice shall be given to Members in the following manner:
1. Publication with the Mustang Media Group, a minimum of once a week for three weeks preceding the election.
2. Distribution and posting of flyers around campus at least three weeks preceding the election.
3. Distribution of information to Cal Poly Recognized Student Organizations at least three weeks preceding the election.
4. Distribution of information to each currently chartered Academic College Club Council at least three weeks preceding the election.
Verification of Written verification of compliance with the notice requirements of this section shall be performed by the Vice Chair of the ASI Board of Directors and maintained in the Minute Book of the Corporation. Such verification shall create a presumption that proper notice was given to Members.

Section B. Requirements for Election by Electronic Ballot (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.5.)

Content of Electronic Any electronic ballot distributed to the Members to vote shall set forth the proposed action and provide an opportunity to approve or disapprove.
Election Procedures. The ASI Board of Directors shall make ballots available to Members pursuant to election procedures adopted under the following guidelines:
1. The Annual Spring Election shall be held no earlier than the 4th week of spring quarter. All student elections shall be held for no less than 24 consecutive hours, Monday through Friday.
2. The Election Timeline shall be determined by the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and approved by the ASI Board of Directors.
3. In the event that an electronic ballot is unavailable, written ballots shall be available at the Office of the Dean of Students. Written ballots must be returned to the Office of the Dean of Students by the end of the Written ballots shall be handled in accordance with normal balloting procedures outlined in the Election Code.
4. Once cast, a ballot may not be
5. All Candidates and Write-In Candidates must be registered under the procedures outlined in the Election Code to be considered eligible for any elected position within ASI.

Section C. Voting Process

Election of ASI President and Directors.
1. Directors shall be elected by a vote of the Members who are majoring within the same Academic College as the Director Candidate or Write-In Candidate. The Candidates and/or Write-In Candidates receiving the highest number of votes, up to the number of Directors to be elected from that Academic College, shall be elected as Directors from that Academic (ASI Bylaws – 4.6.3.)
2. ASI Presidential elections shall be decided by a majority vote of voting Members. If there are three or more Candidates and/or Write-In Candidates running for ASI President, the ballot shall include provisions for Instant Runoff Voting. If no Candidate or Write-In Candidate receives a majority of the vote, a winner shall be determined based on a ranking of Candidates and/or Write-In Candidates by each Member voting in that election.
3. Names of Candidates for elected office shall be placed on the ballot in order according to a random drawing.
4. A space shall be left for Write-In Candidates for each
5. A Member shall vote for the Candidate and/or Write-In Candidate of their choice by marking their ballot accordingly.

Section D. Ballots

All Members shall have access to an electronic
The electronic ballot shall be available for at least 24
Written ballots shall be void if not marked accordingly.

Section E. Quorum Requirements (ASI Bylaws – Section 5.3.)

Calculation of ASI ASI Membership shall be the number of persons regularly admitted and enrolled as matriculating students at Cal Poly during the fifth week of the academic quarter immediately prior to the academic quarter in which the election is to be held (“ASI Membership”). For the fall quarter Special Election, ASI Membership shall be determined by the previous spring quarter enrollment. For the Annual Spring Election, ASI Membership shall be determined by the enrollment at the beginning of classes for winter quarter.
Quorum Requirements in General Except as provided below with regard to the election of Directors, in order for an election by Members to be valid the number of votes cast in the election must exceed the greater of one percent (1%) of the ASI Membership or 125 votes.
Quorum Requirements for Election of Directors. Directors are elected by a vote of Members majoring in each Academic College. In order to be a valid election of Directors, the number of votes cast in an Academic College must exceed the greater of:
1. One percent (1%) of the Members majoring in that Academic College or 125 votes, if the total enrollment in that Academic College exceeds 5000: or
2. Two and one-half percent (2.5%) of the Members majoring in that Academic College or 50 votes, if total enrollment in that Academic College is less than 5000 but more than 1000: or
3. Five percent (5%) of the Members majoring in that Academic College if the total enrollment in that Academic College is less than 1000.
Voting If a quorum is present, the affirmative vote of a majority of the Members voting in the election shall be the act of the Members, unless the vote of a greater number of Members is required by the ASI Bylaws.

Section F. Requirements for Special Elections (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.6.)

Persons Entitled to Call for a Special Election. A majority vote of the ASI Board of Directors, the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors, or five percent (5%) or more of the Members may call for a Special Election of the Members for any lawful purpose.
Procedure for Calling a Special
1. Written Request for a Special Election. Any person(s) authorized to call for a Special Election of Members may submit a request in writing to the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors, or the Vice Chair of the ASI Board of Directors, specifying the matter to be decided at the Special Election with sufficient detail to permit a determination on whether the matter is a proper subject for a Special Election.
2. Presentation to the ASI Board of Directors. Upon receiving a written request for a Special Election from a person(s) authorized to call for a Special Election, the request shall be submitted to the ASI Board of The ASI Board of Directors shall determine whether the matter is a proper subject for a Special Election, and, if so, the ASI Board of Directors shall schedule the Special Election.
3. Scheduling of a Special Election. If the ASI Board of Directors determines that the matter is a proper subject for a Special Election, the ASI Board of Directors shall schedule a date that is not less than 35 or more than 90 calendar days following receipt of the written The Special Election shall be scheduled and conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth in Section 3.5.
Special Elections (amendments, propositions, )
1. The proposition shall be stated in full upon the
2. The propositions shall be followed by two boxes, one for a “yes” vote, and the other for a “no” The voter shall indicate a choice by marking as directed in either box.

Section G. Membership Fee Election (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.7.)

In addition to the requirements contained in the ASI Bylaws, any election involving the establishment or alteration of ASI membership fees for the Corporation shall comply with the California Education Code; Title 5, California Code of Regulations; and any policy adopted by the Trustees of the CSU or the University President.

Section H. Notification of Balloting Results

Immediately following the close of the balloting process and tabulation of the ballots, the ASI Board of Directors shall notify the Members of the outcome of the If the number of ballots cast is insufficient to constitute a quorum, the ASI Board of Directors shall notify Members of that fact and shall immediately schedule a Special Election. (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.5.5.)
The election results process shall be supervised by the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and the Dean of Students’ No other person shall participate unless approved by the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and the Dean of Students’ Representative. (ASI Bylaws Section – 3.5.5.1.)
Before announcing the results, the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee shall see that all the votes cast are electronically preserved until the 24-hour protest/recount period has passed.

Article VIII. Candidate Filing

Section A. Filing for Candidacy

All Candidates and Write-In Candidates must be registered under the procedures outlined in the ASI Election Code to be considered eligible for any elected position within (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.9)
Candidates and Write-In Candidates for the ASI Board of Directors must be enrolled students in the college for which they are Prospective Candidates and Write-In Candidates with an Individualized Change of Major Agreement (ICMA) must have completed their ICMA process into their prospective college before submitting their filing packet.
1. Candidates and Write-In Candidates may only run for Directors positions in the college for which they are a member during the campaign and election period.
All Pre-Candidates and Write-In Candidates for office in the Annual Spring Election shall file a Candidate Packet under the ASI Board of Directors approved Election timeline.
1. All Pre-Candidates must submit a candidate statement in order to file for candidacy.
Individuals may become Pre-Candidates for election as Directors by submitting their Candidate Packet not less than 50, nor more than 120 days (as per California Nonprofit Corporation Law, Section 5522(a)), before the election, in accordance with procedures established by the ASI Board of (ASI Bylaws – 4.6.2)
Individuals may become Pre-Candidates for ASI President by submitting their Candidate Packet not less than 50 days and not more than 120 days before the election (in accordance with the procedures established by the ASI Board of Directors). In order for a Candidate’s name to be placed on the ballot, the Candidate Petition must contain signatures totaling 1% of the ASI Membership as defined in Section 3 of the ASI Bylaws.
1. The Dean of Students Office shall decide the eligibility of any Candidate for an ASI office before putting their name on the For Write-In Candidates, the Recruitment & Elections Chair must notify the Office of the Dean of Students immediately so they may determine eligibility as soon as possible.
Any Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate who is expected to graduate during the spring term but awaiting admission for prospective graduate school for the following academic year, may run for The Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate will be subject to all other qualifications to hold office.
Pre-Candidates, Candidates, or Write-In Candidates for office that are on Academic Probation during the filing and campaign period are eligible for office if they meet both conditions:
1. The Pre-Candidate’s, Candidate’s, or Write-In Candidate’s Cal Poly grade point average is above the minimum 0 following the spring term and prior to assuming office.
2. The Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate will no longer be on Academic Probation upon assuming office.

Section B. Write-In Candidacy

Write-In Candidates must register their candidacy to be eligible to hold office.
Write-In Candidates may fill out the forms any time before the Write-In Candidates must submit all required forms (Write-In Candidate Packet) to the ASI Business Office within 24 hours of closing of the election.
Registered Write-In Candidates shall be allowed to participate in regularly scheduled activities sponsored by the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee.
If a person has filed to be on the ballot for a different office and wishes to be a registered Write-In Candidate, that person must sign a statement removing themselves from the ballot a minimum of 24 hours preceding the election.
Any campaign for a Write-In Candidate is subject to the rules and regulations set forth by ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and the appropriate ASI Bylaws and ASI Election Code sections.

Section C. Withdrawing Candidacy

In the event that a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate wishes to withdraw from candidacy, they must notify the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee in writing per the ASI Candidate Packet 24 hours preceding the election. If a candidate withdraws after the open voting period has begun, any votes cast for the candidate will be void.

Article IX. Election Campaign Rules

Section A. Mandatory Candidates’ Meeting

All Pre-Candidates must attend the Mandatory Candidates’ Meeting, at which time campaign financing and other rules and regulations shall be Pre-Candidates who cannot attend this meeting must notify the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee before the meeting, with the reason for their absence. It is within the discretion of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee to allow a make-up session. Failure of a Pre-Candidate to attend without prior notification shall cause disqualification from the election.
1. Pre-Candidates disqualified due to absence without prior notification may submit a written appeal to the Chair of the Recruitment & Elections Committee within two days of receiving the notice of disqualification.
2. Under extraordinary circumstances, an appeal may be granted at the discretion of the Chair of the Recruitment & Elections Committee, in consultation with the Dean of Students Representative and the Disciplinary Subcommittee advisor.
Write-In Candidates will adhere to all election policies during the entirety of their campaign. Write-In Candidates must attend a make-up Mandatory Candidates’ Meeting (time permitting).

Section B. General Campaign Information

A Candidate’s campaign shall include the participation in regularly scheduled election activities recommended by the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and approved by the ASI Board of Directors.
Candidate eligibility will be checked by the Dean of Students’ Representative. Candidates and Write-in Candidates must meet all CSU and ASI requirements as outlined in the ASI Student Government Qualifications for Office Summary.
A student may not simultaneously hold a position in Student Government and be employed by A potential conflict of interest may arise if ASI employs members of ASI Student Government, because those individuals govern and make decisions regarding ASI.
All Campaign Workers must be identified by the Pre-Candidate on the Campaign Team Declaration and Statement of Integrity form in the Candidate If a Campaign Worker joins a campaign after submission of the form, the Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate must register the Campaign Worker by updating their Campaign Team Declaration and Statement of Integrity form to the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee as soon as practicable.
All Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Write-In Candidates will be held responsible for conduct by their Campaign Workers related to the Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate’s A Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate shall be subject to disciplinary action if any individual acts as a Campaign Worker without being declared as such by the Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate.
Campaign Workers are prohibited from engaging in any form of campaigning at ASI-sponsored election events, including but not limited to Media & Resource Day, the ASI Presidential Debate, and the Candidate Meet & Greet.
Outside of ASI-sponsored election events, Campaign Workers may campaign on behalf of Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Write-In Candidates, distribute materials, and engage with voters, provided that all activities comply with the ASI Election Code.
Any Member that has not been expressly or impliedly authorized by a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate through a Campaign Team Declaration and Statement of Integrity form and violates the Election Code and/or University Policy, Rule or Regulation will be reported to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities (Campus Administrative Policy 140, Title 5.2 §41301).
Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers are expressly prohibited from engaging in behavior that is defamatory, illegal, or discriminatory in Instances of inappropriate, unprofessional, or unkind behavior are also prohibited. Any instance of such behavior will be investigated by the Disciplinary Subcommittee and will be subject to penalties which may include disqualification.
1. This includes the prohibition of behavior on Social Media that is of a mocking, accusatory, or pejorative nature.

Section C. Active Campaigning

Active Campaigning shall begin at least ten (10) days before the first day of elections under the Election Timeline. There can be no Active Campaigning before the scheduled start of campaigning.
ASI is committed to providing resources during Active Campaigning to ensure equitable campaigns of all Resources include, but are not limited to, graphics packages, promotion on the ASI website, or printing of flyers (limited to 100 flyers for Presidential Candidates and 50 flyers to Board of Directors Candidates). Candidates must be informed of any ASI provided resources in the Candidate Packet and at the Mandatory Candidates Meeting. Resources will be provided at the start of Active Campaigning.
An E-Plan must be completed and approved by the Dean of Students’ Representative for all on and off campus campaign This includes if such activities and publicity are reasonably foreseeable, known, or planned. All E-Plan timelines apply.
Events using a Candidate or Write-In Candidate’s name in publicity may not be held prior to Active Campaigning (i.e., “Club Z and the Committee to Elect Candidate Y for Board of Directors invite you to join the first Board of Directors 10K Run”).
Campaign material may not be placed on or in vehicles without written consent of the vehicle owners, except for authorized car This behavior may constitute a misdemeanor. (Title 5, California Code of Regulation 42350.5 (a))
All Social Media containing campaign material must be blocked from public access until Active Campaigning begins.
1. All members including Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Campaign Workers are prohibited from posting a Pre-Candidate’s Candidate Petition on Social Media.
Candidates and Write-In Candidates may repost official ASI posts from official ASI Social Media channels as long as the content would not lead a reasonable person to associate the Candidate or Write-In Candidate with the organization’s favor.
Candidates and Write-In Candidates may use photos of themselves taken by ASI student or full-time photographers for campaign Any photo used in this way must not be credited to or appear as though it is from ASI. Images taken by ASI student or full-time photographers within the Student Government office are prohibited from campaign use.
Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers must avoid Media Communications to the extent possible until Media This provision does not:
1. Prohibit the Media from unilaterally publishing information about the Pre-Candidates, -Candidates, or Write-In Candidates, or
2. Penalize students for the Media’s unilateral conduct, or
3. Prohibit Media Communications that are pre-authorized or sponsored by the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee or the It is the responsibility of each Pre-Candidate, Candidate, Write-In Candidate , and Campaign Worker to take reasonable steps and reasonably try to avoid Media Communications prior to Media Day.
Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Write-In Candidates may confirm with the Media they have filed their Candidate Packets with Confirmation of filing by a news outlet will not be considered violating the ASI Election Code.
ASI and its Officers may not endorse a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate. Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-in Candidates, and Campaign Workers cannot campaign using ASI as an influence (i.e., cannot campaign or endorse a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate while wearing ASI paraphernalia, while in the ASI workplace, ). Candidates and Write-In Candidates may not use the ASI logo on any campaign materials.
1. Using ASI as an influence is further defined as any action that would lead a reasonable person to associate the Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate with the organization’s This includes volunteering at ASI-sponsored events and using ASI resources in the Candidate or Write-In Candidate’s campaign (i.e., apparel, giveaways, etc.). This does not include ASI-provided candidate services and/or materials, or use of past ASI work to promote one’s campaign.
  1. Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers may post photographs from official ASI-sponsored election events, such as the Candidate Media & Resource Day, the ASI Presidential Debate, and the Candidate Meet & Greet, that include the ASI Candidates , Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers are not required to block out the ASI logo in such instances.
2. An endorsement is further defined as explicitly supporting a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate’s run for office, and/or taking action to influence the outcome of the election in favor of a specific Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate. An Officer being present with a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate does not constitute an endorsement, nor does a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate’s support of an Officer’s campaign.
Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers may not request, solicit, or otherwise seek exclusive endorsements from university staff or faculty members.
1. An exclusive endorsement is defined as any statement, action, or communication by a university staff or faculty member that publicly promotes or supports one specific Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate to the exclusion of others, and that reasonably conveys an official or preferential backing by that individual’s university position or authority.
Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers must maintain an appropriate distance from all ASI events when An appropriate distance is defined as 200 feet.
1. Campaign Workers must also maintain this distance from all ASI Elections hosted events.
Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers may not distribute any form of inducements or bribes on Election Day(s).
All physical campaign material must be removed by 5 m. the Monday following the elections. Failure to remove material may cause a Candidate or Write-In Candidate to be charged for grounds and maintenance cleanup or further action as determined by the disciplinary subcommittee. In its discretion, the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee may impose additional requirements regarding the removal of campaign materials for Open House events.
1. If circumstances make it necessary for an election to be held virtually, the Recruitment & Elections Committee may suspend the use of all physical campaign material, as well as in-person campaigning during Active Campaigning to ensure equitable campaigns. A Candidate or Write-In Candidate shall be subject to disciplinary action if physical campaign material is used in a campaign during a circumstance involving physical campaign suspension.
The ASI Student Government Office (University Union, Building 65, Room 202 is a strict no campaigning zone. Members are prohibited from campaigning, holding campaign meetings, working on campaign materials, or storing campaign materials within all spaces of the ASI Student Government office.
Any questions about campaign rules or sites should be directed to the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee or the Dean of Students’ Representative.
Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers are prohibited from removing, defacing, or covering another Candidate or Write-In Candidate’s flyers or materials.

Section D. Campus Administrative Policies

All Campus Administrative Policies (CAP), including Time, Place and Manner (TPM) regulations apply to all students participating in the ASI Annual Spring Election (Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, Campaign Workers, ). Any amendments to Campus Administrative Policy will take precedence over the policies outlined in ASI Election Code.
Chalking, Posters, Signs, and Banners
1. Chalking
  1. Chalking is allowed only by recognized student organizations, state-sponsored programs, and University-affiliated groups.
  2. It is restricted to flat, horizontal surfaces, such as sidewalks and plazas, at least 20 feet away from building entrances.
  3. Chalking must use water-washable chalk, and requests must be approved through an official process, including a commitment to clean up within a maximum of five days.
2. Posters, Signs, and Banners
  1. Posters and signs can be placed on general use public bulletin boards inside campus buildings but must not exceed 11”x17” in size.
  2. Each group or individual is allowed only one poster per bulletin board, and the posters must not overlap with Tacks or staples must be used for fastening, with tape prohibited.
  3. Staked temporary signs are limited to 5”x11”and must be placed in shrub areas, avoiding lawns.
  4. Signs, posters, and flyers may not be attached to trees or campus structures without prior approval.
  5. Banners up to 3’x6’ require a building permit request submitted at least two weeks in advance and must be approved by the Vice President for Administration and Finance or a designee.
  6. Sandwich boards are allowed only in designated areas like Dexter Area and Ag Circle and must not restrict sidewalk or building entrance access,
  7. All signs and posters must clearly identify the sponsoring organization and contact information.
  8. Temporary signs must be removed no more than two weeks after posting, or once the event is over.
Violations of these policies can result in the removal and disposal of signs without notification, and responsible parties may be charged for cleanup. (Campus Administrative Policy §145.7)

Section E. University Housing Policies

Any amendments to University Housing Policies will take precedence over the policies outlined in the ASI Election Code.
Housing may not endorse or assist specific individual Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and/or Write-In Candidates in promoting their campaigns within campus housing communities.
Campaign materials distribution procedures for residence halls and on-campus apartments:
1. Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and/or Campaign Workers are not permitted to place any election or campaign material in resident mailboxes.
2. Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and/or Campaign Workers are not permitted to go door to door to resident rooms or apartments.
3. Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and/or Campaign Workers are not permitted to post flyers in residence halls or on-campus apartments.
4. Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and/or Campaign Workers are not permitted to campaign in person within 30 feet from residence halls or on-campus apartments (e.g., tabling, ).
Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates or Campaign Workers wanting to attend and/or speak at the Inter Housing Council Advocacy Board meeting should contact the Inter Housing Council President to set up a time.

Article X. Financing Campaigns

A completed Campaign Closeout Statement from all Candidates and Write-In Candidates is due by the deadline specified in the Election The statement shall be signed attesting to the truthfulness of the financial statement.
The cost of a presidential campaign shall not exceed $600 in total campaign expenditures from all The estimated value of campaign materials is subject to verification by the disciplinary subcommittee.
1. If physical campaign material is suspended (Article IX, Section C, 11a), the cost of a presidential campaign shall not exceed $250 in total campaign expenditures from all The estimated value of campaign materials is subject to verification by the Disciplinary Subcommittee.
The cost of a Board of Directors campaign shall not exceed $100 in total campaign expenditures from all The estimated value of campaign materials is subject to verification by the Disciplinary Subcommittee.
ASI provided resources are not to be included as a cost of a presidential or Board of Directors campaign.
The ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee will provide all Pre-Candidates with educational opportunities on financing campaigns at events including, but not limited to, the Mandatory Candidates Meeting.
All Candidates must complete the Campaign Closeout Statement and include all expenditures and all receipts for expenditures, including all donated campaign materials used by Candidates, Write-In Candidates, or their Campaign Workers, regardless of whether a Candidate or Write-In Candidate has made any campaign expenditures.
The Campaign Closeout Statement is in the Candidate Packet.
All paid media (i.e. television, radio, newspaper, Social Media, ) advertisements bearing the name of one or more Candidates and/or Write-In Candidates must be claimed in full in the Campaign Closeout Statement by each of the Candidates and/or Write-In Candidates mentioned in the advertisement. This does not include public service announcements.
Candidates and Write-In Candidates may choose to finance their campaign through crowd-sourcing platforms such as If Candidates or Write-In Candidates utilize such a platform, these following conditions must be met:
1. All funds collected, including any other money spent, must not exceed the maximum expenditure in the Election.
2. All money and their contributors must be included in the campaign closeout Statement, including anonymous donors.
3. If the funds collected are not spent on the Candidate or Write-In Candidate’s campaign, the funds must be returned in a good-faith effort.
4. Fundraiser platforms must indicate what the Candidate or Write-In Candidate intends to use the funds for.
5. The Candidate or Write-In Candidate must include a disclaimer on the crowd-sourcing platform page to all donors, that any anonymous donations that are unused in the campaign will not be returned.
Any misleading or fraudulent Campaign Closeout Statements made by a Pre-Candidate, -Candidate, or Write-In Candidate shall be considered an election violation, and subject to disciplinary action.

Article XI. Violation of Election Rules, Disciplinary Action, and Complaints

The ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee is the governing body for all complaints of violations of the ASI Election Code.
1. A disciplinary subcommittee shall be formed to adjudicate all alleged violations of the ASI Election Code.
2. All determinations of this subcommittee shall be communicated in writing to the affected parties.
3. The Disciplinary Subcommittee shall be appointed by the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors prior to the beginning of the filing period for the Annual Spring Election.
4. Appointments to the Disciplinary Subcommittee shall first come from ASI Board of Directors Representatives serving on the ASI Recruitment & Elections
5. In the case that a member of the Disciplinary Subcommittee becomes a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, Write-In Candidate, Campaign Manager, or Campaign Worker they shall be removed from the subcommittee and replaced with a new voting member.
6. The disciplinary subcommittee shall be comprised of:
  1. Voting Members:
    1. The Chair of this committee shall be the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee.
    2. Two additional ASI Board of Directors
  2. Non-Voting Members
    1. The Dean of Students’
Disciplinary Subcommittee members must maintain strict neutrality throughout the election process.
1. Public support for a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, and/or Write-In Candidate is prohibited, including Social Media activity that may be interpreted by a reasonable person as support for the Candidate or Write-In Candidate’s run for office. This includes liking, reposting, commenting, and sharing or otherwise interacting with a Candidate or Write-In Candidate’s digital campaign materials.
All violations of elections rules will be considered pursuant to the elections packets and ASI Election Code approved annually by the ASI Board of (ASI Bylaws – Section 3.8.)
All Pre-Candidates, Candidates, Write-In Candidates, and Campaign Workers shall adhere to all election policies during the entire filing period and through the end of the election period. Any violations of campaign regulations, regardless of whether a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate has officially filed for office, may be subject to disciplinary action at the discretion of the Disciplinary Subcommittee.
Disciplinary action for violations of the ASI Election Code by Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Write-In Candidates may include, but is not limited to, issued warnings per violation and/or The Disciplinary Subcommittee may take into account previous violations when deciding appropriate disciplinary action.
All Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Write-In Candidates found to have violated the ASI Election Code, as determined by the Disciplinary Subcommittee, will be subject to disciplinary Depending on the severity of the infraction, Pre-Candidates, Candidates, and Write-In Candidates may be subject to a warning or be recommended for disqualification. Disciplinary action may be issued for, but is not limited to, the following: campaigning prior to the start of Active Campaigning; failing to identify and register all Campaign Workers; violating any campus policies, city, and county laws and ordinances; removing, defacing, or covering another Candidate and/or Write-In Candidate’s campaign material; exceeding the campaign spending limit.
Any protest regarding any aspect of an election must be submitted to the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee or the Dean of Students’ Representative in writing within 72 hours of the alleged All violations must be submitted within 24 hours of the polls closing.
Complaints regarding violations of rules and procedures must be submitted in writing (email or hard copy) to the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and specify:
- The section(s) of the ASI Election Code allegedly violated, by whom, and how it affected the election.
- A summary of the oral, written, and/or material evidence to be submitted to support the complaint, including the names of any witnesses.
- Evidence must be provided in order for the Disciplinary Subcommittee to take action on any alleged violations.
Candidates or any Member may submit a complaint.
The committee will arrange a timely hearing regarding that complaint.
A Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate may be disqualified from taking office if found in violation of the ASI Election Code upon recommendation by the disciplinary Disqualification requires a two-third majority vote by the ASI Board of Directors in favor of disqualification. Such a vote must come before election ratification by the ASI Board of Directors. Disqualification appeals must be made before election ratification.
Any Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidate that refuses to cooperate with the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee or does not attend the proceedings may be barred from participating in the election process in absentia, following a majority vote of the ASI Board of Directors.
Any Pre-Candidate, Candidate, Write-In Candidate, or Campaign Worker that violates the Active Campaigning rules in any form shall be notified in writing and subject to disciplinary action, per the ASI Election Code.
Failure to comply with the ASI Election Code; the California Education Code; Title 5, California Code of Regulations; or any policy adopted by the Trustees of the CSU or the University President may cause a Pre-Candidate, Candidate, or Write-In Candidates’ ineligibility to campaign for or hold an elected office.

Article XII. Irregularities

Section A. Voting

An election shall be declared null and void upon recommendation by the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and a two-thirds vote by the ASI Board of Directors in favor of disqualification and/or nullification if irregularities arise involving the election as a whole (e.g., an appreciable discrepancy in the number of ballots issued and the number cast). This includes an irregularity that appears to be the fault of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee.

Section B. Protest

Any protest regarding any aspect of the election must be submitted to the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee Chair or Dean of Students’ Representative in writing within 72 hours of the alleged All violations must be submitted within 24 hours of the polls closing.

Section C. Recount

Any Candidate or Write-In Candidate has the right to request a recount of the ballots cast for the office for which they are running, and the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee shall accede to the A request for a recount must be in writing within 24 hours after the results of the election have been announced. If a recount is requested, the current ASI President shall assist the Chair of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee and Dean of Students’ Representative in recounting the ballots as the representative of the requesting party. If the ASI President is seeking re-election, the Chair of the ASI Board of Directors will assist in recounting the ballots in place of the ASI President.

Section D. Alternate Dates for Elections

If circumstances make it necessary to cancel the election, alternate elections will be held within the two school weeks following the original dates.

Article XIII. Miscellaneous

The captions or headings in the ASI Election Code are for convenience only and are not intended to limit or define the scope or effect of any provision of the ASI Election Code.

Article XIV. Amendments

This ASI Election Code may be amended through Bylaws/Policy Review or recommendation of the ASI Recruitment & Elections Committee. All amendments must be approved by a majority vote of the ASI Board of Directors.

Approved by the ASI Board of Directors on October 29, 2025