How do I register to vote?
You can register online if you have a Washington State ID/driver’s license. Mail-in or in-person registration can be done without a state ID by using the last four digits of your Social Security number with a paper form and sending it by mail, or filling it out in person at the Election Division office, located in the Whatcom County Courthouse. Online and mailed registration must be received by Monday, July 24.
You can register to vote up until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Aug. 1. You have until July 24 to update your registration online or via mail and can update your registration in person from July 25 until 8 p.m. Aug. 1.
When will I get my mailed ballot?
Ballots will be mailed out Wednesday, July 12, for the Aug. 1 primary elections.
What is on the ballot?
For city and county councils, you will only see races that are within your district or ward on your primary ballot. At-large races will be on all ballots within each jurisdiction, as well as positions in fire and school districts, and county executive, mayor and sheriff. Initiative measures will be voted on during the November general election. You can find more information on the state’s website.
Where can I find a ballot box?
The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office has a list and map of all ballot drop-off locations.
What is the difference between primary and general?
The primary election is a precursor to November’s general election. August’s election is known as a “top-two primary,” meaning it will narrow all candidates in each contest down to the top-two finishers, regardless of a candidate’s party preference. This means in some races, we may see two Democrats or two Republicans, or even a minor party candidate, advance to the general election in November.
What is the last day I can mail in my ballot?
Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Aug. 1), meaning they must be mailed before the end of the day. Be sure to mail your ballot early.
Can I vote in person?
Yes. In-person voting is available on Election Day, and the county will have in-person Accessible Voting Units (AVUs) to help folks who need visual or auditory assistance. These AVUs will be available starting July 14. To be clear, though, the state heavily encourages voters to use their mailed ballots.
Do I have to vote on my party’s ticket?
You do not have to choose a party when you register to vote in Washington.
Where can I find information about candidates?
The county has voter guides and resources available. You can also check with groups like the League of Women Voters in Whatcom. The organization is hosting several candidate forums at 7 p.m. July 11–12, and voter registration drives over the next few weeks.
CDN will publish stories about a handful of the races and Citizens Agenda reader questions prior to the primary election. CDN will also publish its own voter’s guide, including candidate endorsements, in advance of the general election. Watch our site and social media feeds for more details.
