October 16, 2019 Blog

Everything You Need to Know About Voting in Washington

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

We can’t end the epidemic of gun violence without electing leaders who will prioritize gun violence prevention. Local elections are essential to ensuring that our gun responsibility laws are effectively implemented and adequately funded. 

So with that in mind, find out which gun responsibility champions are running in your district. Then read on for 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! The deadline to register or update your registration online is October 28th. But 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 November 5, 2019. 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.

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. 

How can I learn about the candidates running? 

Check out our 2019 endorsements to find the gun responsibility champions running to represent you. You should also receive the General Election Voters’ Pamphlet, which has information about everyone and everything that will appear on your ballot. For personalized ballot measure and candidate information online, go to MyVote.wa.gov.

 


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