How has the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on political parties' right to control their candidate nomination process?

In California Democratic Party v. Jones (530 U.S. 567, 2000), the Supreme Court ruled 7–2 that political parties have a First Amendment right of association to control their own candidate-selection process. The Court struck down California's "blanket primary" law, which allowed non-party members to vote in party primaries, because it forced parties to associate with candidates and voters they did not choose. The decision affirmed that parties may exclude or vet candidates to protect their message and identity — a principle that supports local committees' authority to set and enforce vetting requirements. The ruling affirms that parties may set their own rules — including vetting — to control who uses the party label on the ballot, but it does not give parties the power to override voter choice in the primary election itself.

State law requires paying a filing fee — why do candidates pay it to the political committee instead of the county clerk?

Missouri law ( RSMo 115.357 ) requires candidates for partisan office to pay a filing fee to the treasurer of the state or county committee of the political party whose nomination they seek. The committee (not the county clerk) is the entity that determines whether the candidate may appear on the ballot under the party label. The fee is set by statute (e.g., $100 for county offices) and goes to the party committee. This structure has existed for decades and gives party committees authority over their own nomination process — including the ability to accept or reject the fee based on party rules and vetting.

Do other political parties vet candidates?

Yes — many do. For example, the Constitution Party of Missouri has required candidate vetting for years, at the suggestion of a former MO Secretary of State. Their process typically involves a written questionnaire based on U.S. and Missouri constitutional principles. If any answer falls outside constitutional bounds, the candidate is rejected and cannot run as a Constitution Party nominee, with no appeal.

Do Democrats vet their candidates?

No, the Osage County Democratic Committee has stated publicly that they do not vet candidates. However, in 2024, the Missouri Democratic Party refused to accept the filing fee from State Rep. Sarah Unsicker when she attempted to run for Governor as a Democrat, effectively preventing her from appearing on the primary ballot under the party label. See Exiled Missouri Lawmaker Blocked from Running for Governor as a Democrat - AP News

What does it mean to be an officer?

Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer) have additional responsibilities beyond regular committee work. They handle leadership, administrative duties, finances, and day-to-day operations. Officers are expected to devote significant time and effort to these roles — it is not a ceremonial position.

What is the difference between eligibility and qualification?

Eligibility is set by Missouri statute (basic requirements like residency and party registration). Qualification is the committee’s authority to decide who can represent us — based on alignment with conservative principles and commitment to the committee’s mission.

What if I’m an elected official?

Elected officials may run for committee positions (as set forth in statute), but if they win and accept a partisan office, they will not be seated on the committee (per our bylaws). This rule ensures committee roles remain focused on Republican principles and committee work, not personal or partisan agendas. Non-partisan elected officials (e.g., school board members) are welcome to join as regular or auxiliary members and must meet the same eligibility and qualified status requirements as everyone else.

Can the committee reject someone who is eligible by statute?

Yes. The committee has the legal right to determine who may affiliate with and represent the Republican Party in Osage County.

Do I have to be vetted to join?

Yes. All candidates for committee positions (regular or auxiliary) must complete the vetting process. (See our Vetting page for details.)

What if I just want to help occasionally?

We welcome auxiliary members (up to one man and one woman per township) and volunteers! Auxiliary members assist regular members, participate in subcommittees, support events, and attend meetings to provide input (non-voting). You do not have to run for a full committee seat to contribute. Auxiliary members must still complete the vetting process but do not file with the county clerk.

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FAQs

How has the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on political parties’ right to control their candidate nomination process?
Categories: Vetting▪
State law requires paying a filing fee — why do candidates pay it to the political committee instead of the county clerk?
Categories: Vetting▪
Do other political parties vet candidates?
Categories: Vetting▪
Do Democrats vet their candidates?
Categories: Vetting▪
What does it mean to be an officer?
Categories: Committee▪
What is the difference between eligibility and qualification?
Categories: Committee▪
What if I’m an elected official?
Categories: Committee▪
Can the committee reject someone who is eligible by statute?
Categories: Committee▪
Do I have to be vetted to join?
Categories: Committee▪
What if I just want to help occasionally?
Categories: Committee▪

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