Allow respondents to type in a name by adding a Short Text field to the form.

I have a form created at https://form.jotform.com/202234800573043

My question is: How do I make it so that people can check the Write in Candidate box and actually write someones name in that spot? Thanks

Also, once I send out the link - how do I gather the votes back?

If I understand the question correctly, you want to allow respondents to type in a name. If so, you may achieve that by adding a Short Text field as shown below.

"Also, once I send out the link - how do I gather the votes back?"

You can view your form submissions via Form Inbox and Submissions Page.

Related guides:

How-to-View-Form-Submissions

Organize-form-submissions-with-jotform-inbox

Should you have any further inquiries, we will be more than happy to help.