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.
A United States Navy enlisted rank indicates where an enlisted Sailor stands within the chain of command, and also defines one's pay grade. An enlisted sailor's rate is similar conceptually to a naval officer's rank. Only Naval Officers carry the term rank in the Navy. The word rate refers to an enlisted sailor's pay grade, while the word rating refers to one's area of occupational specialization within the enlisted Navy.