What are the requirements for special elections?
Special elections in Washington are elections that take place outside of the regular voting periods, most often to fill a vacancy in a legislative or executive office. In the state of Washington, special elections are governed by the state election laws that are found in the Washington Administrative Code. In order for a special election to be held in Washington, the election must first be called by the governor, the legislature, or a county or city legislative authority. The authority must pass a special election resolution indicating the purpose of the special election, the date and time of the election, and the officers or measures to be voted on. In addition to the resolution, a Notice of Special Election must also be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the area in which the election is to be held. The notice must include the same information as the resolution and must also include instructions for how to file for candidacy or how to oppose or support any propositions on the ballot. The notice must be published at least twenty-eight days before the election. Once the notice is published and the election is finalized, the voting process for a special election is the same as for a regular election. All voting must take place in person at a polling place designated by the authority that called for the election. All voters must bring valid identification in order to vote. The polls will close at 8:00 PM on the designated day of the election, and the results will be certified and announced following the required post-election canvassing.
Related FAQs
What is the role of county clerks in the election process?What are the election laws in my state?
What are the voter eligibility requirements?
Who is eligible to vote in the United States?
What is the role of the state election board?
What are the rules for ballot access?
What is the process of recounts and challenge of election results?
What are the rules for recounts and challenge of election results?
What are the rules regarding the disclosure of campaign contributions?
What is the voting age in the United States?
Related Blog Posts
What Are the Basics of Election Law? - July 31, 2023Understanding Your Right to Vote Under Election Law - August 7, 2023
Navigating Election Laws: A Guide for Candidates - August 14, 2023
Election Law and the Electoral College – What You Need to Know - August 21, 2023
An Overview of Election Laws and How They Impact a Voter's Rights - August 28, 2023