Washington’s 2026 Primary Election: What to Watch

Washington voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, August 4, in the state’s Top Two Primary. Ballots are mailed beginning July 17 and can be returned by mail or deposited in official ballot drop boxes through 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Registered to vote? Visit the Secretary of State’s website to do so: Register to Vote in Washington | WA Secretary of State. Supporting friends of long-term care on the ballot is a powerful way to participate in advocacy.

Under Washington’s unique election system, all candidates for partisan offices appear on the same ballot with the two winning candidates advancing to the November General Election.

This year’s election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent years. All 98 House seats and 25 Senate seats are on the ballot. While Washington’s Democratic majorities are expected to remain intact, the size of those majorities will influence the direction of tax policy, healthcare, housing, transportation, and long-term care in the 2027 legislative session.

Legislative Battlegrounds

Several suburban legislative districts, including portions of Pierce, Snohomish, Clark, and King counties, are expected to feature highly competitive races that could influence committee leadership, budget negotiations, and policy priorities in Olympia.

For WHCA members, the stakes are particularly high. Legislators elected this fall will make key decisions next session on Medicaid funding, long-term care reimbursement, workforce policy, regulatory requirements, and the state operating budget.

The WHCA-PAC Committee has approved its first round of campaign contributions to legislative candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting quality care for Washington’s seniors and vulnerable adults. These contributions are made possible through the generous support of WHCA-PAC donors and help ensure that the long-term care community has a voice in the political process.

WHCA encourages every member to stay engaged throughout the election season by learning about the candidates in your district, participating in facility tours and candidate events, supporting WHCA-PAC as able, and most importantly, voting. Together, we can help ensure that Washington’s elected leaders understand the vital role long-term care providers play in serving our communities.

Want more information about political action and advocacy? Reach out to Aidan Swayne today.