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

This election will determine the top two candidates to advance to the general election in races for Governor and U.S. Representatives all the way down to state Senators and Representatives. 

Don’t miss this chance to make your voice heard at this unprecedented moment in history.  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? 
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. You can also register online (here) until July 27, 2020. 

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? 
Primary election day is August 4, 2020 and the voting period begins July 17, 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? 
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. This is different from the presidential primary, which required voters to declare a party on their ballot. 

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. 

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.

 

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