Voters' pamphlets and ballots have arrived - and it's free postage to return your ballot

By Diane Hettrick

Don't be intimidated by the 90 page voters' pamphlet that arrived in your mail this week. Most of it has nothing to do with our districts.

Congressional races

U.S. Senator - page 11-25
A large part of the packet and ballot belongs to the 28 people who are running against incumbent U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell.

I like to at least skim the statements to see what kind of people are filing for office. There are people who run to promote their businesses. Others use the exposure to promote a cause.

There are familiar names and familiar parties. There are a lot of new people and some new political parties. Only one person didn't bother to submit any information.

U.S. Representative District 7 - page 29
Incumbent Pramila Jayapal has a Republican challenger, Craig Keller.


State Legislative District 32 - Shoreline - page 47-53

State Senator - page 47-48
Incumbent Maralyn Chase is being challenged by Democrat Jesse Salomon and Republican James Wood.

State Representative Pos 1 - page 49-50
Incumbent Cindy Ryu is challenged by Republican Diodato Boucsieguez, and Centerist Keith Smith.

State Representative Pos 2 - page 51-52
With Ruth Kagi's impending retirement, the seat is open. Candidates are Democrats Lauren Davis and Chris Roberts and Republican Frank Deisler.


State Legislative District 46 - Lake Forest Park and Kenmore - page 81

State Senator - page 81
Incumbent Democrat David Frockt has a Republican challenger Beth Daranciang.

State Representative Pos 1 - page 82
Incumbent Democrat Gerry Pollet and challenger Republican Jeff Patton.

State Representative Pos 2 - page 83
Democrat Javier Valdez was appointed to the seat when Jessyn Farrell resigned to run for Mayor of Seattle (she came in third). Running against Valdez is Republican Jerry Zeiger-Buccola.


King County Measure - page 84

Only one measure on this ballot. A vote to replace an expiring levy to fund the automated fingerprint identification technology used by law enforcement to help identify criminals from local and national databases.

Where to turn in your ballot - full information in flyer included with your ballot

1. Any mailbox - postage is free
2. Drop boxes at Lake Forest Park City Hall and Shoreline Library - also in Seattle locations that may be on your shopping or commuting route

Mailed ballots must be postmarked by August 7

Ballot drop boxes close at 8pm on August 7

Accessible voting centers in Bellevue, Renton, and downtown Seattle.