When a Recount Is Automatic
In Washington, some close races automatically trigger a recount at state expense, removing any need for a candidate to request one. This happens under two different conditions, depending on the closeness of the margin. A machine recount is required if the difference between the top two candidates is less than 2,000 votes and also less than one-half of one percent (0.5%) of the total votes cast for both of them. This process involves re-scanning the ballots through tabulation equipment to verify the initial count. The state's election laws are designed to initiate this process automatically to ensure accuracy without political pressure.
The Manual Recount for Razor-Thin Margins
When an election is exceptionally close, the process moves from machines to human hands. A mandatory manual
recount—often called a hand recount—is triggered by even tighter margins. For a non-statewide office, this happens if the difference is less than 150 votes and also less than one-quarter of one percent (0.25%) of the total votes for both candidates. For statewide races, the threshold is slightly larger: a difference of less than 1,000 votes and less than 0.25% of the total. During a hand recount, teams of election staff physically examine each ballot to tally the votes, providing the most granular review possible.
Requesting a Recount
What if the margin isn't close enough to trigger an automatic recount, but a candidate or campaign still has concerns? Washington law allows them to request one. A candidate, an officer of a political party, or a group of five or more registered voters (for a ballot measure) can file a written application for a recount. This request must be filed within two business days after the county canvassing board officially certifies the election results. The application must specify whether the request is for a machine or a manual recount and which precincts should be included.
Who Foots the Bill?
The question of cost depends entirely on how the recount was initiated. If a recount is mandatory due to a close margin, the state covers all expenses. However, for a requested recount, the person or group asking for it must front the cost. At the time of the application, they must submit a deposit. According to state law, the deposit is 15 cents per ballot for a machine recount and 25 cents per ballot for a manual one. If the cost of the recount exceeds the deposit, the requester has to pay the difference. There's a significant exception: if the recount changes the outcome of the election, the deposit is fully refunded, and the state assumes the cost.
How the Process Unfolds
Once a recount is initiated, the county canvassing board sets a date and time for the public proceeding. Transparency is a key feature; observers from political parties, the candidates' campaigns, and the general public are permitted to watch the process. Whether it's a machine or manual recount, election officials conduct their work under observation to ensure every step follows the law. After the recount is complete, the canvassing board reviews and certifies an amended abstract of votes. This new, verified total becomes the official result of the election.
