Candidates for public office may be nominated by political party nomination or independent nomination. Democratic and Republican candidates must run in the primary election to secure their party’s nomination. Candidates of other recognized Kansas political parties (currently Libertarian) do not run in the primary and are nominated for the general election by party caucus or convention. Independent candidates do not run in the primary and may only file to run for office by petition. Candidates for national, state, legislative and judicial offices must file their candidacy with the Secretary of State. A candidate is not considered filed until their petition or declaration and fee is received by the Secretary of State (K.S.A. 25-208). Candidates must file by petition or filing fee.