What Candidates Need to Know

The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region (ANCA-WR) conducts a thorough, structured process to assess candidates and determine organizational endorsements. The information below outlines what candidates can expect when participating.

1. Candidate Questionnaire

Candidates who are interested or under consideration will receive a Questionnaire.

• Deadline: Must be completed and returned within 10 business days of receipt.

• Candidates who do not submit written responses are not eligible for interviews or endorsement consideration.

2. Candidate Interviews

Interviews may be conducted to clarify questionnaire responses and further assess a candidate’s positions.

• Not all candidates must be interviewed.

• Interviews are scheduled after questionnaires are submitted.

• Participation helps the committee better understand your alignment with ANCA-WR priorities.

3. Evaluation & Recommendation

After reviewing all materials, the ANCA-WR Government Affairs Committee:

• Reviews questionnaires and interview notes

• Independently scores candidates

• Votes on an endorsement recommendation by a simple majority

The committee’s recommendation is then forwarded to the ANCA-WR Board for final approval.

4. Endorsement Outcomes

ANCA-WR may issue one of the following decisions:

Endorsement

The organization formally supports the candidate.

Open Endorsement

Two or more candidates are equally aligned with ANCA-WR priorities; all receive support.

No Consensus

The committee could not agree on a recommendation.

No Position

ANCA-WR chooses not to take a position in the race.

Opposition

In rare cases, ANCA-WR may oppose a candidate who has acted against the interests or objectives of the Armenian-American community.

Requires a 2/3 committee vote.

5. Final Board Approval

All recommendations are reviewed by the ANCA-WR Board, which must approve endorsements by a 2/3 vote.

The Board may:

• Approve the committee recommendation

• Modify the recommendation

• Return the recommendation for reconsideration

• Issue “No Consensus” if no action is taken

6. Candidate Notification

All candidates receive official written notice of the final endorsement decision following the Board vote.

Key Takeaways for Candidates

• Submit questionnaires on time (10 business days).

• Be thorough and transparent in your written responses.

• Interviews strengthen your candidacy when offered.

• The ANCA-WR Board makes final decisions, not the evaluating committee.

• Every candidate receives formal written notification.

ANCA-WR QUESTIONNAIRES