Richard Winger, the founder and long-standing editor of Ballot Access News, has announced his decision to step down after four decades of dedicated service. Winger, a renowned figure in the field of ballot access laws, has been at the helm of the newsletter since its inception in 1985. He will be succeeded by Bill Redpath, former chairman of the Libertarian National Committee and a seasoned political activist.
In a heartfelt letter to subscribers, Winger expressed mixed emotions of joy and a tinge of sadness as he announced his decision. He reflected on the significant improvements in ballot access laws since 1985, highlighting the reduction in the number of signatures required for presidential candidates running outside the major parties. In 1988, the requirement was 609,048 signatures, but by 2020, it had dropped to 568,689.
Winger also noted the decline in the percentage of votes needed for a party to remain on the ballot. In 1984, the median state requirement was 5%, but today it stands at 2%. Despite his departure, Winger assured subscribers that Ballot Access News would continue to deliver the content they expect.
Winger’s successor, Bill Redpath, is a well-known figure in the Libertarian Party. He served as the chairman of the Libertarian National Committee from 2006 to 2010, and has run for office several times as a Libertarian. Most recently, Redpath was the Libertarian Party candidate for the U.S. Senate for Illinois in 2022. Winger expressed confidence in Redpath’s ability to carry on the newsletter’s mission, citing his shared passion for fair ballot access laws and his fresh perspective on increasing the newsletter’s visibility.
While stepping down from his editorial role, Winger will remain involved in an advisory capacity to ensure a smooth transition. He expressed trust in his subscribers’ continued support for the newsletter under Redpath’s leadership.
Richard Winger’s dedication to improving ballot access laws has been a cornerstone of his career. His work has been instrumental in advocating for fair and accessible elections, making him a respected figure in the field.
Bill Redpath, a seasoned advocate for ballot access, is expected to continue the legacy of Ballot Access News. His previous experience as chairman of the Libertarian National Committee and his passion for fair ballot access make him a fitting successor to Winger.
