If you would like information about voting outside Washington State, visit our friends at Vote.org.

It’s election season once again! This year, Washington voters will elect candidates for vital local positions including big ones like mayor and city councilmembers and others like school board members, fire commissioners, port commissioners and more.

Local elected officials have a huge role to play in keeping our schools and communities safe from gun violence. They are responsible for implementing and funding existing gun laws and supporting local gun safety policies and programs.  

Don’t miss this chance to make your voice heard! Here’s 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? 

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. You can also register online (here) until July 26, 2021. 

How do I vote? 

Washington 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 here. 

When do I vote? 

Primary election day is August 3, 2021 and the voting period begins July 16, 2021. 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.

Who is running? 

You can find out which gun responsibility candidates are running in your area in our (interactive!) voter guide. Find out who will appear on your ballot here.

Do I need to declare a party? 

No! Washington’s Top 2 Primary allows voters to choose among all candidates running for each office so you do not have to declare a party affiliation to vote in the primary. 

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. Because of COVID-19, the CDC recommends finding alternatives to voting in person if possible. But if you do need to get to the polls in person, follow these safety recommendations from the CDC. 

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. 

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— Kristen Ellingboe is Communications Manager with the Alliance.