The ELECTIONS EXPLAINED is a short explainer series showcasing all aspects of how elections work in Washington State, from the floors of the state conventions to the final counting of votes in November. Each video can stand alone, or they can be viewed as a series. Additionally, all come with lesson plans for easy implementation in the classroom.
Elections Explained
Redistricting in Washington State
Examine legislative redistricting in Washington State and how the bipartisan redistricting committee works and the power of court challege.
WA Democratic State Convention
See how the Washington State Democratic Party convention gathers its base to caucus, collaborate and adopt the parties platform.
WA Republican State Convention
Explore and influence of party conventions, how they are structured, and the role of delegates in shaping the electoral process.
Mainstream Republicans Conference
See how WAs Mainstream Republican Conference acts as a think tank and forum for focusing on political party interests and endorsements.
Labor Council COPE Convention
Candidate Endorsements: how do they really work? Understand the role that the unions can play in an election.
Candidate Filing Week
Learn how candidates get on the ballot and how WA's SOS office ensures the process is equitable and fair for both candidate and voter.
Voter’s Pamphlet and Video Guide
Learn about informational resources provided to voters prior to elections, and how that information is gathered and validated.
Importance of Debates
Learn about State debates, their purpose, what the electorate can learn from a debate, and how the media prepares to moderate a debate.
WA Top Two Primary
Learn how Washington State's Top Two Primary works, the different scenarios that can play out, and how political parties strategize to win.
The Initiative Process
Learn from UW Law scholar, Hugh Spitzer, how WAs initiative process works, and the benefits and potential pitfalls of the initiative process
Balancing Security and Access
In the United States, each state conducts their elections slightly differently, learn how WA ensures the integrity of its voting process.
Ballot Hand Recount
See how WA State's ballot recall is resolved through the 2024 Lands Commissioner race mandatory recount, and the oversight involved.
Elections: What’s at Stake
Review the 2024 state of Washington races post the August Primary Election, and pre the November Election, to understand election dynamics.
What is a Precinct Committee Officer?
Learn how Precinct Committee Officers play a part in party business at every level of our democracy.
How to Become a Precinct Committee Officer
How to become a Precinct Committee Officer - There are many vacancies and you are needed!
Precinct Committee Officer Privileges and Responsibilities
Chirag, a PCO himself, explains some of the impactful responsibilities of a PCO, like nominating political candidates for elected offices.
Precinct Committee Officers Unit