Forming a new political party

The California elections code governs political parties. Sections 5000-5006 and 5100-5102 specify how a new party can be formed and allowed to participate in primaries. Some requirements are:

• Submit voter statements from at least 1 percent of the total state vote in the last gubernatorial election saying they intend to affiliate with a new party. 

• Submit voter statements on or before the 135th day before the next primary election, which will be in June of 2012 (making the deadline in February 2012).

• Conduct a caucus or convention at which temporary officers are elected and a party name designated.

• File a formal notice with the California Secretary of State that the political body has organized, elected temporary officers, and declared an intent to qualify a political party.

• The notice has to include the names and addresses of the temporary officers of the political party.

You don't need to switch parties 
if you change your mind

It is worth noting that although someone signs a statement saying they intend to affiliate with a new party, they do not need to actually change their party registration once the new party qualifies. The specified number of voter statements are needed to qualify a new party. However, once a new party qualifies, it needs to maintain a lower number of registered voters in the new party to stay qualified. 

Help wanted

What needs to be done is clear. People who want to participate are invited to respond to calmoderate@gmail.com. It would be helpful to include a brief description of what you are willing to do, e.g., sign a statement of intent to affiliate with a new party, be a temporary officer or help to recruit more voters.