Student Mock Election runs Oct. 27-Oct. 31

Published 12:02 pm Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Thousands of students in grades K-12 soon will get a taste of what voting is like by taking part in the annual Washington state Mock Election.

Now in its 10th year, the Mock Election is a fun opportunity for students to experience voting for real candidates and measures. Sponsored by the Office of Secretary of State, the Mock Election is a nonpartisan, educational program that teaches kids to be informed voters.

The Mock Election is free and open to all Washington K-12 students, whether they attend private, public or tribal school or are homeschooled. Voting takes place online, starting at 9 a.m. Oct. 27 and ending Oct. 31 at 1 p.m.

Students can vote by going to the Mock Election website at: www.vote.wa.gov/MockElection.

Secretary of State Kim Wyman said the Mock Election prepares students to be active in civic life.

“The Mock Election is a great way to introduce students to voting and why it’s important,” Wyman said. “I hope every Washington student will graduate with the skills to fully engage in our democracy, and have the passion and commitment to do so.”

The first Mock Election was held in 2004, with 1,552 students participating. About 20,000 students are expected to vote in this year’s Mock Election.

Students will “vote” on three high-profile state initiatives, Initiatives 591 and 594, which both deal with background checks for gun purchases, and Initiative 1351, which seeks to lower class sizes in public schools. Students also will weigh in on their district’s congressional race.

Call 360-902-4143 with any questions.