Aug. 3 is Seattle's primary election. Here's what voters need to know

Have you returned your ballot?

Aug. 3 marks the primary election in Seattle, and data from King County Elections shows that only 17.39% of voter's ballots have been returned and counted. Countywide, 16.69% of ballots have been returned, according the the latest ballot return statistics.

In the primary election, voters will pick top contenders who will face off in the general election in November. This year has drawn a record amount of candidates, with a total of 646 filing with King County Elections to run for office. Of that, 217 candidates will appear on the Primary ballot.

From the issues at stake to important dates, here's everything you need to know about the upcoming primary.

Can I still register to vote?

You can still register in person at the King County Elections Office in Renton or at a Voting Center up until 8 p.m. on Election Day.

What's on the ballot?

Seattle voters will decide who will advance to the general election for several seats on the Metropolitan King County Council, including Districts 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9. King County Executive, who leads the council, is also up for election, with incumbent Dow Constantine running against former state Sen. Joe Nguyen and several other candidates.

With incumbent Mayor Jenny Durkan not seeking reelection this year, Seattle residents will choose between 15 candidates for the city's highest position, advancing the top two to the general election.

Two Seattle City Council seats, Positions 8 and 9, are also up for election. Current Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda has raised more money than any other candidate for Position 8 and will likely advance. Position 9 is set to be a tighter race between Fremont Brewing co-owner Sara Nelson, activist and 2017 mayoral candidate Nikkita Oliver and Council President Lorena Gonzalez's legislative aide, Brianna Thomas, all seeking the position.

Seattle City Attorney is another position up for grabs. Incumbent Pete Holmes is seeking his fourth term, running against public defender Nicole Thomas-Kennedy and Ann Davison, who ran for lieutenant governor last year as a Republican.

A full list of candidates for each position can be found here.

There is one ballot measure that will be voted on by the entire county: an extension of the "Best Starts for Kids" levy, which was approved in 2015. Several other special purpose districts may have their own ballot measures. A full list of the measures can be found here.

How do I return my ballot?

If you are returning to a drop box, it must be submitted by 8 p.m. on Aug. 3 to be counted. There might be lines from last-minute voters, so plan ahead. The nearest drop box location can be found here.

Those who need extra assistance completing their ballot can also go to one of the county's six voting centers.

If you plan on returning your ballot by mail, it must be postmarked by Aug. 3. Postage is not required for returning your ballot. However, King County Elections does not recommended that voters return ballots via mail this close to the primary, and instead suggests voters find their nearest drop box to ensure their ballot is counted in time.

What if I didn't get my ballot?

If you are a registered voter in the county and did not receive your ballot in the mail, call King County Elections at 206-296-8683.

How can I track my ballot?

View your registration information and track your ballot here.