Arkansas § 7-5-315 - Counting votes for unopposed and deceased candidates.
Full text of Arkansas Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 7-5-315 — Counting votes for unopposed and deceased candidates., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 7-5-315. Counting votes for unopposed and deceased candidates.
The votes received by an unopposed candidate in any election held in this state may be counted or tabulated for administrative purposes but shall not be certified, unless otherwise provided by law, by the election officials. The word “UNOPPOSED” shall be inserted on the tally sheet to indicate that the candidate has received a majority of the votes cast in the election. However, the votes received by an unopposed candidate for the office of Mayor, Governor, and Circuit Clerk shall be counted and tabulated by the election officials. All other unopposed candidates shall be declared and certified as elected in the same manner as if the candidate had been voted upon at the election. The votes received by any person whose name appeared on the ballot and who withdrew or died after the certification of the ballot shall be counted. If the person received enough votes to win the election, a vacancy in election shall be declared. If the person received enough votes to qualify for a runoff, the person's name shall appear on the runoff ballot. If enough votes are cast for the person to win the runoff, then a vacancy in election shall exist.
Source: official Arkansas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas § 7-5-315
What does Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 7-5-315 cover?
Section 7-5-315 ("Counting votes for unopposed and deceased candidates.") is part of the Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Arkansas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arkansas § 7-5-315?
A common citation format is "Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 7-5-315" (Arkansas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arkansas law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arkansas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arkansas attorney.
How does Arkansas § 7-5-315 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arkansas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.