We are in the midst of another political season in Mariposa County. There are county-wide and district offices candidates aspire to occupy.

The first thing all of these candidates must remember is there are rules, guidelines, and restrictions that apply to every election in this state.

The political “watch dog” is the Fair Political Practices Commission, and its actions for violations can range from admonishment to hefty fines, even criminal charges in the most extreme cases.

First, all candidates must secure an FPPC number for their campaign. There are a number of local candidates that have yet to do so.

There are also some specific rules regarding campaign activities and effort. For example, each candidate who contributes to his or her own campaign financially, even in an amount as low as $5, must open a separate checking account to deposit the funds, along with any and all contributions. A complete financial report of contributions and expeditures is also required by specific dates during the campaign process.

There are definite guidelines governing mass mailings and solicitation of campaign contributions, and candidates are not allowed to post signs prior to 90 days from the date of the election, and those signs must be set back 10 feet from the right-of-way. There are also rules defining and governing conflicts of interest, and statements of economic interest, which apply not only during the campaign, but also during the term in office.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg. All of the rules and guidelines are clearly spelled out on the FPPC Web site, and there may have already been violations committed by current candidates, who may be uninformed.

We ask that all registered voters ask themselves if the individual they are supporting for office has complied with all of the FPPC rules, and if not, urge them to do so.

It keeps the playing field level, and that is exactly what the process of democracy is about.