Common Questions

Do I have to vote on everything on the ballot?

No, you can choose to vote only on the candidates and issues you want to. For any candidate or issue you are undecided on, you can leave your choice blank.

Do I have to choose a political party to vote in the election?
No, you do not have to choose a political party to vote in the General Election.

What is a provisional ballot and how do I vote with one?
A provisional ballot is a regular ballot given to a person under the following circumstances:

• The name of the voter does not appear in the poll book;
• The poll book indicates the voter was sent an absentee ballot, but the voter wants to vote at the polls;
• The voter does not have required identification;
• Other circumstances as determined by the precinct election official.

What’s an incumbent?
An incumbent candidate is the person who holds the office right now.

When can I expect to get my absentee ballot?
The county begins mailing ballots 20 days before Election Day. If you have not received your ballot one week before Election Day, contact your county election’s department: (206) 296-VOTE.

Can I still register to vote?
Yes. You can register to vote by mail up to 30 days before the election, so if you register by mail now, you will not be able to vote in this year’s general election. However, you can register in person at the County Elections office through Oct. 22 (15 days before the election).

If you need direct assistance with your ballot or voting procedures or to register in person, contact:

King County Auditor/Election Office
King County Admin. building #553
500 Fourth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: (206) 296-VOTE
http://www.metrokc.gov/elections

top  

Don’t Be Turned Away!

If you are registered to vote and meet the qualifications to vote, you cannot be turned away at the polls, even if your name does not appear in the poll book. Ask the poll worker for a “provisional ballot.” (RCW 29A.04.008).

Voting Rights For Ex-Felons

The state Supreme Court recently upheld its decision to require that ex-felons pay the financial fees associated with their sentencing before being allowed to vote. Current law requires a felon to complete all requirements of a felony sentence, including payment of financial obligations, and obtainment of a certificate of discharge, in order to get the right to vote restored (RCW 9.94A.637).

If you are an ex-felon and would like to learn more or want to know how to get your voting rights back, please contact Poverty Action at 1-866-789-7726.

top