Nov. 5 general election underway

OLYMPIA — The Nov. 5 general election is underway.

Voting began last Friday; the state estimated there are 4.9 million registered voters statewide.

This election includes federal, state and local races, as well as statewide initiatives and possibly local levy and bond measures, officials said.

Ballots must be returned to a valid county drop box or voting center by 8 p.m. Nov. 5 to be counted.

Voters who choose to return their ballots by mail can use the provided postage-paid envelope, which must be postmarked by Election Day to be counted. Washington has more than 544 official drop boxes and 67 voting centers, administered by county election officials, across the state that ballots can be securely returned to.

The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing ballots on or before Oct. 29 — a week before Election Day.

“The Office of the Secretary of State and our county election offices are dedicated to ensuring every election runs securely and transparently,” Assistant Secretary of State Kevin McMahan said. “This election is a chance for every eligible voter to help shape their community, and we are committed to making sure every voice is heard.”