About the Mock Election

How many times have you heard someone say "You should be the mayor of Nantucket"? Or that you can't buy an election?

Now you can do both.

At a time when government officials must cut budgets, raise taxes, and satisfy a demanding electorate, Nantucket's "mayor" will have none of those responsibilities - nor will the mayor have any actual power.  The Honorary Mayor will, however, be expected to participate in Chamber-sponsored island events. Nantucket has never had a mayor - day-to-day operations are handled by a Board of Selectmen and a Town Manager, with an annual Town Meeting to approve budgets and vote on legislation.

Candidates

Anyone can register to become a candidate for the office of Honorary Mayor of Nantucket, a fundraiser for the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce. All that is required of candidates is a love of Nantucket, payment of a $20.11 fee, and agreement to the Guidelines and Indemnity Agreement. Credit cards will be accepted. Candidates can register at this website or visit the Chamber offices upstairs at Zero Main Street. A headshot is recommended, and candidates may also include a paragraph on their platform, a campaign slogan, bio, and connection to the island. To be eligible, a candidate must be a living person over the age of 18, and must either "nominate" himself or herself. You cannot nominate another person.

Beginning just before April 1, 2011, candidates are encouraged to place "paid political advertisements" in local newspapers, magazines, websites, e-newsletters and blogs. Use Facebook and Twitter to rally your friends to vote for you.
 
Voting begins on April 1, 2011, with ballots available both at  the Chamber offices upstairs at Zero Main Street and through this website. The decision of the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce on the winners of this mock election is final. Voting ends in mid-August 2011.   

Register as a Candidate >>

Voters