King County Elections mailed nearly 1.4 million ballots to registered voters across King County on Wednesday, Oct. 14 for this year’s General Election.
King County is projecting 90% turnout for the Nov. 3 election, or approximately 1,287,000 ballots returned. This would be record-breaking turnout with the previous high of 85% in 2012.
Joined by King County Executive Dow Constantine on election headquarters’ ballot processing floor in Renton, Director Julie Wise talked about expectations.
“We project 90% voter turnout because we’re ready and prepared to make sure every vote counts,” Wise said in a news release. “Our state has layers upon layers of physical and cyber security measures in place to protect your vote and our elections. We’ve got this.”
Featuring an 18-inch ballot, this year’s election is comprised of 64 races, including a total of 118 federal and state candidates. There are 22 measures, with 16 local and six state. Included are state, county, city, school and special purpose district measures.
“Our democracy works best when everyone has the opportunity to make their voice heard,” Wise said. “Voters should keep an eye out for their ballot and make a plan to vote early.”
Voters who do not receive a ballot by Monday, Oct. 19, or who have questions should call King County Elections at 206-296-VOTE (8683). Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 3, or returned to one of the 73 ballot drop box locations across the county. Drop boxes are open 24-hours, seven days a week until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots can be returned at any time before the deadline – but the earlier, the better.
The deadline to register to vote online is Oct. 26. Voters can register and vote through 8 p.m. on Election Day at any of King County Elections Vote Center locations around the county.