What is the process of recounts and challenge of election results?

The process of recounts and challenge of election results in Washington involve a few different steps. First, if the difference between the leading candidate and the runner-up is less than 2,000 votes, then the runner-up can request a recount. This is done by filing a petition with the state elections office. The runner-up must pay any costs associated with the recount. When a recount is requested, county election offices must manually count all valid ballots. After that, the results are certified and reported to the Secretary of State. If the results still have a narrow margin between the candidates, the runner-up can then challenge the election results by filing a contest. This is done in Superior Court and must be filed within five days of the certification of the election results. During a contest, a judge will hear evidence from both sides and decide if the election should be invalidated or the results changed. If either a recount or contest of an election result is unsuccessful, the runner-up may file an appeal to the Supreme Court. All appeals must be filed within 20 days of the order of the Superior Court. These processes allow citizens to ensure that they receive accurate election results and that their rights to vote are not being violated.

Related FAQs

What is the National Popular Vote Compact?
What is the difference between a direct and indirect election?
What is the role of county clerks in the election process?
What is the process for selecting delegates to national conventions?
What are the rules for third-party candidates?
What is an open primary election?
What are the requirements for absentee voting?
What are the election laws in my state?
When and where do I have to vote?
What is gerrymandering?

What is the process of recounts and challenge of election results?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts