In 2012, candidates needed either one percent or 500 signatures (whichever was lower) from Democrats in each of the state's 50-plus congressional districts. They had two months to do so -- which, particularly if you're hoping to keep expenses under $5,000, is a time crunch. Other states work similarly; some don't.
A contemporary definition of rank-and-file is prevalent in labor union vernacular when referring to general membership and not union leaders. Rank-and-file generally means the employee doesn't occupy a high-level position within the organization.
Meaning. 1  The ordinary members of a group; as opposed to the group leadership. 2  Rank and file now refers to the ordinary members of any group but it originated as a military term. The rows and columns of soldiers, drawn up for drill and not including officers, were called 'ranks' and 'files'. 3  To learne to keepe his ranke and file orderly.