If you are interested in running for office this year, get ready to file your Declaration of Candidacy.  Candidate Filing Week is May 15 – May 19, 2023.  

Candidates can find information regarding offices open for election, filing fees, steps to file for office, the Candidate Filing Guide, and lot draw results on the Auditor’s Candidate Resource webpage at  https://www.whatcomcounty.us/Candidate-Resources

County Auditor Diana Bradrick advises prospective local candidates to review the Candidate Filing Guide.  Requirements and regulations can change from year to year so this is a great resource, Auditor Bradrick said. 

Candidates are encouraged to file their Declaration of Candidacy online.  The online candidate portal opens at 9:00 am on Monday, May 15, and closes at 4:00 pm on Friday, May 19.  The link to file online is on our website (Candidate Resources/File for Office).

Candidates not able to file online will need to complete a Declaration of Candidacy paper form.  The form is on our website (Candidate Resources/File for Office).   The form can be returned by mail, email, fax, or in person.  A Declaration of Candidacy form may be mailed to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office, Election Division, 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103, Bellingham, WA  98225 from May 1 - May 19.  A form returned by email or fax must be submitted after 9:00 am on Monday, May 15, but before 4:00 pm on Friday, May 19.

Candidates may file in-person at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office starting at 8:30 am on Monday May 15 through 4:30 pm on Friday, May 19.  

The lot draw will be held at 4:45 pm on Friday, May 19.   The lot draw determines the order candidates will appear on the ballot. The deadline to withdraw a Declaration of Candidacy is at 4:30 pm on Monday, May 22.

For more information, contact the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office, Election Division at (360) 778-5102.