Elections
Arguably, the most effective way citizens participate and influence their government is by voting. The right to vote allows people to express their preference for a candidate or for a proposed resolution on an issue. Since freedom of expression sits at the center of our representative democracy, so does our elections. The Department of Government Relations and Outreach strives to provide the citizens of Spokane with the information they need to become informed voters and stronger citizens.
Voter Registration
To register to vote, you must be:
- A citizen of the United States
- A legal resident of Washington State
- At least 18 years old by Election Day
You may register to vote at any time, but you must be registered at least 30 days in advance of an election if you wish to vote at a polling place on Election Day. You may also register between 30 and 15 days before an election, but you must do so at a location designated by the county elections officer, and you will be required to vote by absentee ballot.
How to register: Mail-in registration forms are available from your county auditor or county elections department as well as many public libraries, schools, and other government offices. “Motor Voter” registration is offered when you renew or apply for your driver’s license. After Jan. 1, 2008, if you have a Washington driver’s license or ID card, you can register to vote online.
Absentee Ballots: An absentee ballot can be requested within 90 days before an election, up until the day before the election. Absentee ballots may be requested either by phone or by mail from the county elections officer. You may also apply in writing to automatically receive an absentee ballot before each election.
NOTE: Absentee ballots must be signed and postmarked or delivered to the county election officer on or before Election Day.
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