PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed a federal judge's ruling dismissing a lawsuit from former U.S. Senate candidate Clayton Walker.

Walker, who's been indicted on election law violations, sued to have his name placed on the November ballot as an independent candidate.

Walker had argued that South Dakota's petition requirements were unconstitutional and that the petition filing deadline of April was too early.

Attorney General Marty Jackley says the court ruled the state's nominating petition deadline and signature requirement did not burden Walker's rights and were reasonable restrictions.

Walker faces nine felony charges for allegedly submitting nominating petitions with the names of dead people, fictitious people and Hollywood celebrities.

A trial date has been set for July 20th in Hughes County.

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