MS SB2167

Requires independent and special election candidates to pay qualifying fees for the first time, with amounts equal to party candidates under Section 23-15-297.

Increases qualifying fees for party candidates: Governor and U.S. Senator to $1,000 (from $300); statewide offices to $500 (from $200); legislative and district attorney positions to $250; county offices to $100; and local offices to $100.

Establishes $2,500 qualifying fee for presidential candidates (both party nominees and independents) to appear on the general election ballot, with fees paid to the Secretary of State and deposited into the Elections Support Fund.

Sets payment deadline of 5:00 p.m. on March 1 (or earlier qualifying deadline) for most offices, with independent and special election candidates paying to the Secretary of State or circuit clerk depending on office type.

Changes presidential preference primary candidate qualification from being "generally recognized" to meeting specific requirements under Section 23-15-1093, including paying a $2,500 fee and filing petitions with 500 qualified electors statewide or 100 per congressional district.