Running for office in the Pacific Northwest? Whether you’re planning a school board race, city council run, or aiming higher, knowing your election timeline is key to mounting a successful campaign.
Below is a breakdown of key candidate filing deadlines and election dates for Idaho, Oregon, and Washington in 2025 and 2026, along with direct links to each state’s official election resources.
Washington State
Washington Secretary of State – Elections
2025 Key Dates
May 5–9: Candidate filing period
May 12: Final withdrawal deadline
August 5: Primary Election
November 4: General Election
Special Elections also occur in February and April
2026 Key Dates
May 4–8: Candidate filing period
August 4: Primary Election
November 3: General Election
Oregon
Oregon Secretary of State – Elections Division
2026 Open Offices & Filing Info (PDF)
2025 Key Dates
May 20: May Special Election
Optional elections may also occur in March, August, and November
2026 Key Dates
May 19: Primary Election
Candidate Filing: September 11, 2025 – March 3, 2026 (by 5:00 PM)
Idaho
Idaho Secretary of State – Elections Division
2025 Key Dates
May 20: Local Election
March 21: Filing deadline for May races
November 4: City & District Elections
September 5: Filing deadline for November races
October 20: Early voting begins
2026 Key Dates
Final 2026 details will be posted closer to the cycle. Stay updated via the Idaho Elections Division.
Planning Ahead
Missing a deadline is one of the fastest ways to derail a campaign before it starts. Set calendar reminders, consult your local election office, and download your candidate filing guides well in advance.
If you’re unsure where to begin, start by reviewing your state’s candidate handbook and building a timeline backward from Election Day.