Auditor answers frequently-asked questions about ballots in upcoming election

90% turnout expected locally in upcoming election

||| FROM MILENE HENLEY, COUNTY AUDITOR |||

Interest is high in this year’s general election. As a result, San Juan County Elections staff have been receiving a record number of questions. Below are some of the questions asked most frequently, with the answers.

• How many registered voters does San Juan County have?
  • 14,220. The number is increasing daily.
• What was the turnout in San Juan County for the 2020 primary?
  • 68%
• What kind of turnout are we expecting for the 2020 general election?
  • 90%
• Can I get my ballot now?
  • Only if you are unable to receive mail during the entire 18-day voting period
• When will ballots be mailed?
  • October 13
• How do I make sure my address is correct on my voter registration?
  • Go to VoteWA.gov. Check your address there. Update it online or call Elections for assistance.
• What if I lose or don’t receive my ballot?
  • Call Elections for a replacement.
• Should I mail my ballot or use a drop box?
  • Whichever is easier. If you are voting within 7 days of the election, we recommend that you use a drop box.
• What if a mailed ballot arrives late?
  • If it is postmarked by November 3 and arrives by November 23, it will be counted.
• How often will you pick up ballots from the drop boxes?
  • We will pick up once a week from Orcas and Lopez and every other day on San Juan. Fortunately, we have larger ballot boxes this year!
• Can I vote online?
  • No, but you can print a ballot from online. Printed online ballots, like mailed ballots, must be returned with a signed declaration by November 3.
• Is San Juan County Elections ready for this election?
  • Absolutely! This election is getting a lot of attention, but every election is important to us.
• How are we keeping Elections workers and visitors safe?
  • We have put in place new procedures and tools to keep workers and visitors safe.
• How do we ensure the security of ballots?
  • Ballots are locked and sealed unless we are processing. During processing, ballots are always handled by two people.
• Can I watch the ballot processing?
  • Yes, on SJC Elections’ YouTube channel.
• When will results be known?
  • Initial results will be posted on election night. Final results will be known on November 23.
• How do we know the results will be accurate?
  • We perform two accuracy tests before and an audit the day after the election to ensure accuracy.

If you have more questions, contact the Elections Office at (360) 378-3357 or elections@sanjuanco.com. We’re here to help.