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While all eyes may be on the UK right now, with Jersey's political term halfway through and just two years until the next election, the race is on to find "high-quality" candidates to stand in the hope of improving the island's dismal voting stats.
'Plan to Stand' is a new campaign which aims to get potential candidates to plan ahead for summer 2026, when all 49 roles in the States will be up for grabs.
Launched by the States Greffe under the Vote.je banner to mark two years since the election in June 2022, the campaign follows feedback from the Jersey Opinion and Lifestyles Survey and research carried out with Nottingham Trent University aimed at improving public understanding and awareness of the political system.
One of the drivers for the move is a bid to increase the dismal turnout at Jersey elections, which over the past three decades has averaged 44.1%.
Despite involving new districts, no more Senators, and 'None of the Above', and bringing about the greatest demographic shift in the States Chamber in living memory, very little changed when it came to getting islanders to polling stations in 2022.
The overall turnout figure was 41.7% – the third-lowest over that period.
It means Jersey remains far behind other OECD nations in terms of engagement.
What islanders want, according to Vote.je Campaign Manager Emily Thomas, is "high-quality candidates and parties that are clear about who they are and what they stand for."
"The ‘Plan To Stand’ campaign sets out to inspire and empower potential candidates to take action early and prepare to deliver their best possible election campaign that builds connections and trust with voters," she continued.
"The aim is that islanders will be motivated to turn out and vote in 2026 because there are plenty of high-calibre options on the ballot paper that align with voters’ views and values.”
A regular newsletter will include updates and guidance for potential candidates, who will also be able to attend events during 2025. More info is available from the vote.je website.
Candidates for Deputy must be at least 18 years old and a British citizen resident in Jersey: (a) for at least two years up to the election, or (b) for six months up to the election, as well as a total period of five years previously.
Candidates for Constable must fulfil the same requirements as for the Deputy role, and in addition must live in the parish they wish to represent.
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