Bayonne Election Nominating Petition Changes Announced

Bayonne City Clerk Madelene Medina has announced she has reduced the number of signatures needed on nominating petitions for the May 12, 2026, Municipal Election.  Those petitions are available in the City Clerk’s Office at the Municipal Building, located at 630 Avenue C, Monday to Friday, except holidays, between 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 noon, and then from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Voters will select a mayor, two council members at-large, and one council member in each of the city’s three wards for four-year terms to commence July 1, 2026.

Candidates for election to municipal office must be registered voters and residents for at least one year and may only run for one office.  Ward council candidates must have been residents of the ward in which they live for at least one year.  Each candidate must submit a nominating petition that consists of separate petition certificates signed by a number of voters as per state law.  According to the revised requirements announced by City Clerk Medina, Mayor and council member at-large candidates must obtain at least 100 valid signatures. First Ward, Second Ward, and Third Ward council candidates need at least 25 valid signatures in their respective wards.  

The previously announced signature requirements involved much higher numbers that were based on a percentage of votes cast in the November 2025 election.  Upon reflection, City Clerk Medina decided to announce easier petitioning requirements that are the minimum number of signatures provided in state law.

The filing date for the signature certificates and other required documents is Wednesday, February 26, at 4:00 p.m.  Signatures will be verified by the City Clerk’s Office, after which a ballot position drawing will be held.