candidates supported by both major parties

As early as the first Federal elections in 1788, there were candidates, who while alligned with one party or another, was supported in the press by both parties in a particular election.

Clerk

Clerk: The officer who has charge of the records, correspondence, and accounts of any department, court, corporation, or society, and superintends the general conduct of its business

Oxford English Dictionary

1787 - 1823: Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York

Office Scope: State / County

Role Scope: State / County