An open congressional seat for Washington’s seventh district means islanders this election have to choose from nine candidates who they want to represent them, and the choice needs to be made by Tuesday.

Congressional District 7 includes Seattle, Vashon Island, Edmonds, Shoreline, Kenmore and parts of Burien and Normandy Park. It is widely known as one of the nation’s most liberal congressional districts.

When longtime District 7 Congressman Jim McDermott announced his retirement after 14 terms (30 years) in January, nine candidates announced intentions to take his place. Among the candidates are democrats Arun Jhaveri, former mayor of Burien; King County Council Chair Joe McDermott (no relation to Jim McDermott); Brady Piñero Walkinshaw, Don Rivers and Washington Senator Pramila Jayapal. Republicans Craig Keller and Scott Sutherland join them along with two candidates who have no party preference: Leslie Regier and Carl Cooper.

The results of this election will determine which candidates are listed on the November general election ballot. The two candidates with the most votes, regardless of party, will move on.

Multiple other congressional and senate positions are also up for election, including one of Washington’s two senate seats, for which 18 are running, including incumbent Patty Murray.

Washington State governor, lieutenant governor secretary of state, auditor, treasurer, attorney general and other state positions are also up for vote.

Islanders can vote by mail, or by returning ballots to the 24-hour drop box located in front of the library.

For more information about the election, read the voter’s pamphlet online at kingcounty.gov/depts/elections.aspx.