As primary season swings into gear across Washington, officials say that over four million voters have received their ballots for the upcoming August 5 primary election. Ballots zipped through mail services to most of the state's registered voters, excluding those in Columbia and Garfield counties. The votes sent out cover 239 races and 59 local measures Washingtonians will have a say in.
Given the state's adoption of a top 2 primary system, many candidates are vying for November general election ballot positions through these preliminaries. A crucial reminder to voters is to ensure ballots are postmarked on time; the U.S. Postal Service suggests sending them back at least one week before election day. Other options are available for those who miss the mail-in deadline, including official ballot drop boxes and in-person delivery at designated voting centers and county elections offices.
“The August primary is another opportunity for Washington voters to help shape the future of their communities,” Secretary of State Steve Hobbs stated. An emphasis is being placed on the importance of every single vote in determining the direction of community growth and governance. Assurance of secure voting processes continues to be a top priority for the Secretary of State's office and the corresponding county election offices.
As highlighted by the Office of the Secretary of State, in-person voter registration or updates to existing registrations must have been completed by the July 28 cutoff if done online or by mail. However, procrastinators can still update their information or register at a voting center until 8 PM on election day. Special attention is being given to 17-year-olds turning 18 before the general election in November; these 'primary-only' voters are eligible to participate in the top 2 primary races.
