SPOKANE, Wash. – With less than 24 hours until election night, candidates for Washington’s 5th Congressional District are making their final efforts to win over voters.
Carmela Conroy and Michael Baumgartner are both eager and actively campaigning in these last hours. Baumgartner shared his approach, saying, “So we’re making phone calls and do a little sign waving still a little knocking on doors and just seeing if we get folks turned those ballots in.”
Conroy echoed similar sentiments, stating, “We’ve still got phone banking and sign waving and tomorrow morning will be waving as well.”
This election marks a significant change, as the seat will see a new representative for the first time in 20 years. Conroy expressed her excitement, saying, “I’m just delighted to be here and you’re looking forward to seeing what the voters have to say.”
Baumgartner added, “And even if folks didn’t vote for or didn’t vote for other candidates, you know make sure to know that they will be working for you as well too.”
The seat is currently held by Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who has served since 2005. Conroy reflected on her own voting experience, saying, “When I was marking my own ballot, I felt like it was in such great company and I’m just really proud, I wish my parents were here to see it.”
Both candidates acknowledged the impressive turnout of candidates this year. Baumgartner noted, “Hey there’s been great candidates that stepped forward for a number of a positions and we should all just be proud to be Americans and river to vote and have a great election night.”
Washington’s 5th Congressional District represents about 774,000 people. During the primary election, Conroy received 18.3% of the votes, while Baumgartner received 27.5%. Both candidates expressed optimism for Tuesday’s election. Baumgartner said, “So there’s sometimes a lot of angst and stress over elections, but the end of the day all Americans are working for a better future.”
Conroy emphasized her belief in the campaign’s direction, stating, “And so I just really think that we’re on the right side of history on this.”
Voters have until 8:00 p.m. on election day to submit their ballots. The Spokane County Elections Office advises last-minute voters to use their white drop boxes for ballot submission.
