Must the chair ask for further nominations three times under Robert's Rules

Nominations: The "Three Times" Question

No, Robert's Rules does not require asking for further nominations three times. This is a common misconception, likely borrowed from auction/bidding traditions.

What Robert's Rules Actually Requires

The chair should give members a reasonable opportunity to make nominations. When nominations appear to be exhausted, the chair may:

1. Ask once if there are further nominations
2. If none are offered, declare nominations closed

*Robert's Rules addresses nominations and states that the chair should allow reasonable opportunity for nominations — there is no requirement for three separate inquiries.

Closing Nominations

Nominations can be closed in two ways:

• By the chair — when it appears no further nominations are forthcoming, the chair simply declares nominations closed
• By motion — a member may move to close nominations, which requires:
  • A second
  • No debate
  • A two-thirds vote (since it limits members' rights)

Important Note

Even after nominations are closed, the assembly can reopen nominations by a majority vote. Closing nominations does not prevent write-in votes or affect the actual election.

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The "three times" rule is parliamentary folklore, not Robert's Rules. One clear opportunity is sufficient.