In the case of a lawsuit involving the candidacy of a political candidate, treat the service as you would for service on an individual. Refer to 6-07/640.00 Individuals and All Other Defendants. If the candidate cannot be served after reasonable diligence, the court may authorize service of the summons on the Secretary of State or county clerk. (ELEC 12) If the court makes such order, a copy of the order must also be served on the Secretary of State or county clerk. Service in this manner constitutes personal service.