OLYMPIA — The voting period for Washington State’s General Election officially commences today, offering residents the opportunity to participate in shaping their local government.

“Elections that are accessible, secure, and transparent are the cornerstone of our democracy, providing you with the opportunity to make your voice heard on a variety of issues,” Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs said in a statement.

He emphasized that the upcoming general election would empower constituents to have a say in who represents them and to weigh in on measures that directly impact their lives in Washington.

Hobbs reiterated the importance of voter registration, encouraging all those who wish to participate to ensure they are registered. He explained that in-person registration will remain available at local county elections offices until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 4.

“If you’re already registered to vote, now is a great time to sign into VoteWA and verify your voter registration information is up to date,” Hobbs said.

Hobbs also highlighted the critical importance of voter participation in this election year.

“Exercising your right to vote is one of the most powerful ways you can make a difference in your community,” he said.

The local election offices in Adams and Grant counties are also reminding voters about specific logistical aspects surrounding ballot submission.

Heidi Hunt, the Adams County Auditor, said in a statement on the voter’s pamphlet that voters should return ballots as early as possible.

“We recommend that you take the ballot inside the post office and ask staff to hand-cancel the ballot before placing it in a mailbox, or that you use one of our ballot drop boxes to deliver it directly to the Adams County Election Office,” Hunt said.

She encouraged voters to make use of the various resources available, including their ability to check their ballot status at VoteWA.gov.

Similarly, Grant County Auditor Michelle Jaderlund stressed the importance of timely action in her statement.

“Voter registration forms that are mailed or completed online must be received by Oct. 27,” she said, urging residents to verify their registration details on the VoteWA platform.

Jaderlund also made a point of addressing post-election activities, reminding voters that completed ballots can be returned via U.S. mail, with no postage required. However, she cautioned against late submissions.

“A late postmark could disqualify your ballot,” she said.

In a previous interview Jaderlund explained that residents when getting close to the deadline need to visit the post office to get their ballot postmarked or drop it off at a voter drop in box to ensure their vote is counted.

Both auditor offices have emphasized the security measures in place to protect the integrity of the election process.

Hunt assured voters that the Adams County Auditor’s Office works diligently to provide “secure, accountable, and transparent elections.”

Jaderlund echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are committed to ensuring a safe and secure election in Grant County.”

As the voting period kicks off, the deadlines for the general election have been made clear.

The 18-day voting period will run from today, Oct. 17, to Election Day, Nov. 4. Ballots are due no later than 8 p.m. Nov. 4.

There is an emphasis from Hunt, Sunderland and Hobbs on the need to ensure that ballots are returned carefully, either through mail or secure drop boxes, to ensure that every vote is counted.

“Thank you for voting and supporting democracy here in Washington,” Hobbs said.