As the November 5 general election approaches, Washington County Elections has started mailing ballots to registered voters. Today marks an important step for democracy, and voters should watch for their ballots, which should arrive by Tuesday next week.
According to the Washington County website, all registered voters, from first-timers to experienced citizens, are included in the upcoming election. However, those under 18 on Election Day must wait until they turn 18 to vote, even if their birthday is the day before. If anyone hasn't received their ballot by the specified date, they can request a replacement by calling the Elections Office at 503-846-5800.
Voters can return their ballots in several ways: by mail, in person at the Elections Office, or using an official ballot drop box available throughout the county. No stamp is needed for mail-in ballots, as long as they are postmarked by Election Day. This year, a ballot drop box has moved from the Law Enforcement Center to the Public Services Building, affecting voters in the 97123 and 97124 zip codes. The complete list of drop box locations is on the Washington County website.
Washington County offers a free service called BallotTrax to help voters track their ballots. It sends notifications via text, email, or voice about the ballot's status—when it's mailed, received for counting, or if there are any issues. Residents can sign up for BallotTrax on the elections office's website.
