Before you return your ballot, read this
Washington has one of the strongest vote-by-mail systems in the country. But recent changes to U.S. Postal Service transportation operations mean some mail may not receive a postmark on the same day it is mailed, raising concerns for ballots returned close to Election Day.
That matters because under Washington law, a ballot returned by mail must be postmarked by Election Day to count.
President Trump has continued his efforts to restrict voting by mail. While those efforts face challenges in court, Washington's election process remains unchanged. Still, voters should know their options and make a plan before ballots arrive.
With ballots arriving next month, here are a few things to consider as you make your plan to vote. But before anything else, check to make sure your voter registration is up to date.
If you plan to use an official ballot drop box, your ballot must be deposited by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots returned through an official drop box by that deadline are guaranteed to be on time.
If you plan to mail your ballot, election officials recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day. If you need to mail it closer to Election Day, you can take it to a post office and ask for a hand-stamped postmark.
And no matter how you return your ballot, make sure you sign the return envelope.
Washington voters deserve confidence that when they cast a ballot, their vote will count.
That is why knowing your options matters. Make your plan now, return your ballot early, and encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same.
More soon,
Rick
