Voting in the general election officially began Friday for the more than 4.9 million registered voters across Washington state, according to the Secretary of State’s office.
On Wednesday, the Lewis County Auditor’s Office mailed 55,475 ballots, which can take up to 10 days to arrive. Beginning Friday, the 544 official drop boxes and 67 voting centers across the state, administered by county election officials, will accept ballots.
If voters submit their ballots by mail, completed ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 5, and the United States Postal Service advises that voters mail their ballots one week before the election.
“The Office of the Secretary of State and our county election offices are dedicated to ensuring every election runs securely and transparently,” Assistant Secretary of State Kevin McMahan said in a statement. “This election is a chance for every eligible voter to help shape their community, and we are committed to making sure every voice is heard.”
This year’s ballot will include four statewide initiatives, statewide elected offices, countywide positions, levies and the race for the presidency.