evidence: A key change in the state’s election laws since 2002 would make this type of switch more difficult. In 2002, voters could vote absentee only if they had a valid reason. Since 2009, any voter can vote absentee, and since 2020, mail-in voting has become extremely popular. This means in early October 2024, many more voters will have already voted than had done so in early October 2002. [...] Washington: "The Secretary of State will certify the candidates and measures for the General Election on August 23. Immediately thereafter, counties will begin the process of printing their ballots to ensure timely delivery to military and overseas voters," according to Jessica Hice, spokesperson for the Washington secretary of state’s office. "Washington state’s deadlines require a certification no later than August 20, 2024. State law allows for substitutions for vice president up until August 22. The Secretary of State will certify the candidates and measures for the General Election on August 23 and would be the last day that any change wouldn’t impact the printing process," Hice wrote in an email to States Newsroom.