Make Your Voice Heard this Election Season
The primary elections are just around the corner, so it’s time to get out the vote! Ensure your voice is heard this election season by voting for officials who represent YOU! In the August primaries, voters will choose the candidate they want to see for each position on the November ballot. This year, we’re voting for District Representatives, Senators, and important state government roles, such as Governor.
There is a lot on the line this election season. Who we elect to office significantly affects government policy and programs, having a strong impact on our community. Make your voice heard by voting in the August Primary and November General elections.
Mark your calendar for primaries: Election Day is August 6th. If you plan to use a drop box, you can drop off your ballot until 8 PM on Election Day. If you are mailing in your ballot, be sure to get it postmarked by Election Day. USPS recommends mailing it a week before to avoid the stress of not having your ballot counted.
Get Registered
You can register to vote in person, online, or by mail. You can register to vote up to Election Day by going in person. If you register online, you can do so up to 8 days before the election, or if registering by mail, it must be received eight days before the election. For directions, check out Vote.gov.
Voting Eligibility
To be an eligible voter in Washington State, you must meet these criteria as posted by the Washington Secretary of State:
“A citizen of the United States
A resident of Washington state
At least 18 years old
If you are 16 or 17, you can sign up as a Future Voter and be automatically registered to vote when you qualify
Not disqualified from voting due to a court order
Not currently serving a sentence of total confinement in prison under the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections for a Washington felony conviction
Not currently incarcerated for a federal or out-of-state felony conviction”
Did you know that 17-year-olds who turn 18 before the November Election can also vote in the August Primary?
Resource Bank for this Upcoming Election
Language Translations
The King County website has translations into Chinese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese. You can also update your language preference to receive future voting information and materials in your chosen language.
How to Vote if You Don’t Have a Residential Address
Voter registration requires a residential and mailing address. If you are unhoused, experiencing housing insecurity, or living somewhere that doesn’t have a traditional address, you can still register to vote using the address of a shelter, intersection, or any specific location you are staying at. This address can be used when filling out the residential address section. Be sure to also include a mailing address where you would like to pick up your ballot. For more information, visit the Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness and the Washington State Legislature.
Accessible Voting
The Washington Secretary of State’s website offers information about accessible voting and how to receive assistance when casting your ballot. They provide contact information to share any concerns about accessibility and a guide if you’re voting in an assisted living facility.
How to Update Your Address
Has your address changed since you registered to vote? Update your voter registration by following the steps on King County’s website. Address updates must be received eight days before the election if done by mail or online. This can be done in person through Election Day.