Ballots are starting to be returned for Oregon’s May 19 primary election.  As of the end of Thursday Hood River County reported that 12.8% of ballots had been returned, while in Wasco County 11.2% of votes have been cast.  County election officials are encouraging voters to stay home, stay safe and vote by mail.  Return postage is now free.  They also ask voters to consider sealing return envelopes with a moist sponge to reduce exposure to COVID-19 for election workers.  This Tuesday is the last day election officials recommend mailing ballots.  After that, ballots can be dropped at any Official Ballot Drop Box by 8 p.m. on May 19, details on those are available at county and state election websites.