March 9, 2020 Blog

It’s Election Season! Everything You Need to Know About Washington’s Presidential Primary

If you would like answers to your questions about voting outside of Washington State, visit our friends at Vote.org.

Washingtonians will vote in what could be the state’s most impactful presidential primary ever on March 10, 2020. This is the first year that Washington’s primary election results will actually determine the number of delegates awarded to each candidate. The primary election will also be held two months earlier this year. 

Don’t miss the chance to make your voice heard in this historic primary. We’ve got all the information you need about turning in your ballot: 

How do I register? 

You can register to vote, verify your registration, update your address, and find out what’s on your ballot here

Is it too late to register? 

No, it is not! In 2018, Washington enacted same-day voter registration, which means voters can register in-person and cast a ballot through Election Day. 

How do I vote? 

Washington state is a vote by mail state, which means if you’re registered to vote your ballot should appear in your mailbox a couple weeks before Election Day. The envelope will include a ballot, a secrecy envelope, and a return envelope. Follow the instructions that accompany your ballot then drop your ballot back in the mail (no stamp required!) or find a ballot drop box location. 

When do I vote? 

Election day is March 10, 2020. Your ballot must be postmarked no later than Election Day or returned to a ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Once you’ve turned in your ballot, you can track it here.

Do I need to declare a party? 

Yes. You do not have to register with a party before the election, but you must check a box on the outside of your ballot envelope identifying as either a Republican or Democrat and that declaration must match your ballot. In other words, you cannot vote for a Democratic presidential candidate and check the Republican box on the outside of your envelope. This declaration only applies to this election. 

Can I vote in person? 

Yes. Every county has a voting center that is open during business hours throughout the voting period, which begins 18 days before Election Day and ends at 8:00PM on Election Day. Find the nearest voting center by logging in to MyVote.wa.gov or contacting your county elections department.

What if I need a new ballot?

No problem! You can get a replacement ballot delivered online by logging in to MyVote.wa.gov. You can also contact your county elections department for a replacement ballot. 

Is the coronavirus impacting the election? 

The election is still proceeding as planned, but the Secretary of State has asked voters NOT to lick their envelopes and to use an “alternative” method to seal your ballot. 

 


— Kristen Ellingboe is the Communications Manager for the Alliance for Gun Responsibility.