An Open Apology and Request for Emergency Action to States Where Presidential Write-In Deadlines Have Passed

Dear Legislators and Voters of Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, Michigan, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Tennessee, and West Virginia,

I want to begin by offering my sincerest apologies to the residents of these states and your elected representatives. Due to an oversight in our campaign, we missed your state’s deadlines to file as a write-in candidate for the 2024 Presidential election, and for that, I take full responsibility. This unfortunate situation may now prevent your citizens from having their votes for an Independent candidate counted, an outcome that troubles me deeply.

In light of this, I respectfully request that you consider convening an emergency session of your State Congress to allow write-in votes to be counted for this election, despite the missed deadline. We must step back and ask ourselves: If a voter’s write-in vote is not counted, is that citizen’s vote truly legal? If a state denies its people the ability to write in a candidate they believe in, does it not deny the very essence of democracy—free choice?

The right to vote includes the right to choose freely among candidates, not just those pre-selected by the parties. By not counting a valid write-in vote, we effectively silence a portion of the electorate. As an Independent candidate focused on healing our nation and empowering the voices of all citizens, I ask for your understanding and consideration in this matter. While it may be difficult, taking such a step would show the world that your states stand for democratic values and the right of its people to be heard.

I deeply appreciate your time and thoughtful consideration of this request. Together, we can ensure that no citizen's voice is silenced.

With respect,

John Fial
Independent Presidential Candidate