writ of election

American  

noun

1. a writ by an executive authority requiring the holding of an election, especially one issued by a governor to require a special election for filling a vacancy in the representation from a state.

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Example Sentences

Murphy signed a writ of election, required under state law.

From Seattle Times • May 3, 2024

Voters will choose former Republican Del. Jeff Campbell’s successor in the 6th House District on Aug. 29, according to the writ of election signed by Youngkin.

From Washington Times • Aug. 4, 2023

Mike DeBonis and David Weigel report: “Pennsylvania election law requires the governor to issue a writ of election within 10 days of a vacancy, with an election to follow ‘not less than sixty days’ later.

From Washington Post • Apr. 18, 2018

Once Parliament has been dissolved, a writ of election is issued for each constituency formally announcing the poll.

From BBC • May 6, 2015

When, for any reason, a vacancy occurs in the representation of any state in the Senate, the Governor of the state issues a writ of election to fill such vacancy.

From Problems in American Democracy by Williamson, Thames Ross