SPOKANE COUNTY, July 15, 2021 –– Starting with this August’s Primary Election, voters throughout Washington will receive a printed voter pamphlet in every election. The pamphlet will include information about candidates and issues that appear on that election’s ballot. Prior to this year, only a few counties had printed pamphlets. The Washington Legislature determined that voters needed basic information and mandated that counties print and distribute the pamphlets, beginning with this Primary election.
“A printed voter’s pamphlet provides every voter with access to basic information to reach an informed decision.” said Spokane County Auditor, Vicky Dalton. The pamphlet contains information about registering to vote, receiving a ballot, and returning the ballot so it can be counted. Each candidate has the opportunity to submit a photo, contact information, a short biography and a short statement. Candidates are not required to submit information.
The pamphlet also contains a basic description of each issue on the ballot, such as a levy or bond. The local jurisdiction must also attempt to appoint for and against committees to write statements for the pamphlet.
Some counties, such as Spokane and Stevens, will mail pamphlets to all households. Other counties, such as Pend Oreille and Whitman, will include the pamphlet with the ballot. In Spokane County, over 323,000 voters will receive ballots and pamphlets, which is about 90% of the registered voters. Some areas do not have a race or issue in this Primary Election. The pamphlets and ballots were mailed this week and should arrive in mailboxes by July 20.
Information about registration, voting, and candidates is also available online at VoteWA.gov.