How to decline your ballot in Saskatchewan provincial elections

Voters are able to decline their ballot in Saskatchewan provincial elections.

Ballots to be kept in polling place (declined ballots)

If a voter has returned the ballot paper, declining to vote, the deputy returning officer shall immediately write the word “declined” on the ballot paper and shall preserve it to be returned to the returning officer

Section 80(3) of The Election Act

This is like provincial elections in Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta, where voters have the option to decline their ballot by handing it back to the election official or writing “declined” on it. This option is not available in Canada’s federal elections.

Our Action Playbook has many ways to raise your concerns and impact the political decision-making processes.

Why decline your ballot?

Declined ballots are counted, unlike staying home and not voting, spoiling your ballot, or submitting a blank ballot which do not count.

A voter might choose to decline their ballot when they feel that none of the options available on the ballot represent their views or if they disagree with the candidates or process presented. It is a way for engaged citizens who are willing, able and ready to vote to show their dissatisfaction with the choices available to them. ie. “I care enough to take the time to vote, but reject the options presented to me, please provide alternatives.”