The King County Elections office has mailed ballots and local voters’ pamphlets this week, to more than 1.3 million registered voters. This is in advance of the upcoming Aug. 6 primary election.

Voters who do not receive a ballot by Monday, July 22 or have questions should call King County Elections at 206-296-VOTE (8683).

“With same-day registration and prepaid postage on ballots, voting has never been easier and more accessible,” stated Julie Wise, Director of King County Elections in a press release. “There are no longer the barriers of restrictive deadlines or needing a stamp- those barriers are gone. Vote and make your voice heard.”

Voters will weigh in on four ballot measures and 218 candidates, in 56 races that include city and county council, mayor, school board and special districts. The elections office forecasts a 36 percent turnout based on past similar elections, but hope participation increases with more ballot drop boxes, prepaid postage and same-day registration.

The primary is the first election where voters can register to vote and cast their ballot on Election Day, part of a group of democracy-focused bills in the 2018 legislative session that includes pre-registration for 16 and 17 year olds and a type of automatic voter registration.

The deadline to online register to vote is July 29, but folks can register up through 8 p.m. on Election Day in person at Vote Center locations. There is currently locations in Renton and Seattle, and centers will open in Bellevue, Kenmore and Federal Way on July 29.

Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, August 6, or returned to one of the nearly 70 ballot drop box locations across the county. Ballots can be returned at any time before the deadline – but the earlier, the better. Drop boxes are open 24 hours, seven days a week beginning July 17.