Want to run for office in Whatcom or Washington? You have one week to file
A five-day filing period for local, state and federal offices opens Monday, May 11, amid special steps to limit the spread of the new coronavirus.
Candidates are urged to file online or by mail because pandemic restrictions have closed the office to the public, according to information at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office website.
Further, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee issued an executive order this week that waives the signature requirement for candidates who want to circulate a petition rather than pay a fee to run for office.
Auditor Diana Bradrick said that those without computer access can submit a paper form through an office dropbox.
And, despite the petition waiver, Bradrick said she expects most candidates will pay the filing fee, which is waived for candidates who can’t afford to pay.
“I’ve worked in elections for over nine years and have never seen a signature petition,” Bradrick told The Bellingham Herald in an email. “It’s intended for those who lack sufficient funds, those who would ordinarily get signatures in lieu of paying the fee.”
There is no income requirement to receive a fee waiver, she said.
“We’re encouraging everyone to file online at home,” Bradrick said. “The bulk of our positions this time are precinct committee officers with no fee.”
Those precinct committee officers are Republicans and Democrats who can vote on party decisions, such as endorsing candidates.
Most state legislative and executive offices are on the ballot for the Aug. 4, primary, as well as state and local judicial positions.
Candidate filing period is 9 a.m. May 11 to 4 p.m. May 15.
Filing information and forms are on the Auditor’s Office website.
Officials are available by phone or email from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 360-778-5102 or elections@co.whatcom.wa.us.
Fax number is 360-778-5101.
The mailing address is Election Division, 311 Grand Avenue Suite 103, Bellingham, WA 98225.
