Oregon residents had until Tuesday, October 14, 2025, to register in order to receive a ballot for the upcoming November 4 Special Election. State officials are emphasizing the importance of participation, noting that while special elections often receive less attention than statewide or federal contests, the issues on these ballots frequently have a direct and lasting impact on local communities.
This year’s special election gives more than one million eligible voters across Oregon the opportunity to weigh in on a wide range of measures. These include proposals to improve school facilities, changes to local tax rates, and levies that affect funding for essential community services such as public safety, libraries, parks, and recreation programs. For example, school districts in Lake Oswego and West Linn-Wilsonville are asking voters to consider bond measures to enhance the safety and security of classrooms and other facilities. In Medford, voters will decide whether to increase the transient lodging tax, which funds tourism-related initiatives and local projects. Numerous counties will also vote on levies that shape how local tax dollars are spent to maintain and improve community infrastructure.
Not every county in Oregon will hold a special election. Only voters in areas with eligible measures will receive a ballot. Counties participating in the November special election include Baker, Clackamas, Columbia, Coos, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Umatilla, Union, Washington, and Yamhill.
Oregon residents who wish to register can do so online at OregonVotes.gov/register
or by completing a paper registration form and returning it to their county elections office. To register, individuals must be U.S. citizens, Oregon residents, and at least 16 years old. However, to cast a ballot in this election, they must be 18 years old by Election Day. Those already registered are encouraged to verify and update their information using the state’s My Vote tool, particularly if they have recently moved or changed their mailing address.
County clerks will begin mailing ballots on October 15. Voters are encouraged to complete their ballots early to avoid delays. Ballots must be received by county elections offices or official drop boxes no later than 8 p.m. on November 4. Due to recent changes within the United States Postal Service, officials recommend mailing ballots by October 30 to ensure they arrive on time. After that date, voters should either hand-deliver their ballots to a local post office and request a manual postmark no later than November 4 or use an official drop box before the 8 p.m. deadline on Election Day. A list of secure drop box locations is available at OregonVotes.gov.
Oregon election officials are urging eligible residents to take action now. By participating in local measures and community decisions, voters help shape the policies that affect everyday life — from schools and safety to public spaces and local tax structures. The November Special Election represents another opportunity for Oregonians to make their voices heard at the local level.