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

They have, indeed, received the usual writ of election; but that writ, alas! was malicious mockery; they were insulted with the form, but denied the reality, for there was one man excepted from their choice. 

From Obiter Dicta Second Series by Birrell, Augustine