How are the rules for a ballot election set under Robert's Rules
Asked November 2026 · Answered by the AI Parliamentarian
How are the rules for a ballot election set?
Rules for Ballot Elections Under Robert's Rules
Ballot elections are governed by a combination of standing rules, bylaws, and Robert's Rules' default provisions. Here's how the rules are established:
1. Hierarchy of Authority
Rules for elections come from these sources, in order of precedence:
| Source | Examples |
|---|---|
| Bylaws | Who is eligible, terms of office, nomination procedures |
| Special Rules of Order | Modified ballot procedures, teller requirements |
| Standing Rules | Administrative details of the election process |
| Robert's Rules (default) | Applies when no other rule covers the situation |
2. What Robert's Rules Provides by Default
When no other rule applies, Robert's Rules establishes these defaults:
- A majority of votes cast is required to elect (not just a plurality)
- Blank ballots are not counted as votes cast
- Illegal ballots (votes for ineligible candidates) are counted toward the total votes cast, but do not count toward any candidate
- Elections are by ballot when required by bylaws or when the assembly orders it
- Voting continues in successive ballots until someone achieves a majority
3. The Assembly Can Set Additional Rules
The assembly itself may adopt rules for a specific election by majority vote, such as:
- Using a plurality instead of majority to elect
- Setting runoff procedures
- Authorizing write-in candidates or prohibiting them
- Specifying how ballots are distributed and collected
These are typically adopted as a special rule of order or a standing rule before the election begins.
4. The Tellers' Role
Robert's Rules also specifies that tellers (a committee) conduct the ballot count and report:
- Number of votes cast
- Number necessary for election
- Votes received by each candidate
- The result
The chair announces the result — the announcement itself constitutes the election.
5. Key Caveats
- Bylaws provisions cannot be suspended, even by unanimous consent
- If your organization's bylaws specify election procedures, those override Robert's Rules defaults
- Rules adopted for a specific election can be changed before voting begins but not after
Bottom line: Start with your bylaws, then your standing rules, then Robert's Rules. If you want rules beyond those defaults, the assembly should adopt them before balloting begins.