article by Maureen McKinney
Our county’s population is approximately 48,800 souls. Statistics show that 81.5% of us are over 18 and eligible to vote, with 78% of those eligible people registered. In the recent primary election, only 39.54% of registered voters cast ballots! That puts us in 23rd place for percentage of participation in Washington State, with Garfield County leading at 60.67% and Franklin County at the bottom with 27.46% voter turnout.
I think it is fair to say that many (if not most!) people in Kittitas County are fans of one sport or another. Being sports fans often brings out our competitive spirit and joy when “our team” wins. This gives me an idea. I would like to challenge all of Kittitas County to get to the TOP OF THE VOTING STATISTICS FOR OUR STATE in the November General Election! I know many people feel under-represented in our state due to the large population centers on the west side. How about we show them that little ol’ Kittitas County can win! Let’s show the whole state that we may be rural and small, but we are mighty and show our patriotism by ALL of us using our voting rights and privilege!
If you are not registered already to vote – I’m talking to you in the 22% – there are three ways to achieve registration: Online at VoteWA.gov, by mail, or in person at the Auditor’s Office in Ellensburg at the Court House. Online and mail applications must be received 8 days before the election, in-person registrations can be made up until 8 pm on election day.
If you are registered, fill out your ballot as soon as you receive it! Don’t think for a minute that your vote doesn’t matter, because it does. It is your chance to make your choices heard and counted. It’s your chance to put Team Kittitas County on top! Wouldn’t that be great for bragging rights? Our county – Team Kittitas County – having the highest voter turnout for the entire state!?
So, let’s get ‘er done! Get registered, vote your choices early, use a ballot drop box and let’s show the whole state what Team Kittitas County can achieve! Let’s beat ‘em all! Go Team Kittitas County!
Co-published by Ellensburg Daily Record Newspaper on October 17, 2026. Maureen McKinney helps chair Communications/Outreach for the League of Women Voters Kittitas County. She is retired and lives in the Manastash Canyon with her dog Belle. Living with wildlife (except for one rogue turkey!) in our beautiful county is her happy place.