Lime gives Washington voters two free rides for midterms

Shared micromobility company Lime is waiving fares for Washington state voters to ease the trip to the polls. The promotion grants two free 30-minute rides on electric scooters and bikes, a move intended to remove logistical hurdles for residents participating in the 2026 midterm elections.

The offer is active in seven Washington communities: Seattle, Bellevue, Bothell, Everett, Redmond, Shoreline, and Spokane. Riders must input the code VOTE26 into the Lime mobile app before starting a trip. The discount covers up to 30 minutes of usage per ride. Standard rates apply for any time beyond that limit. Trips must start and end within designated service zones to qualify.

Parker Dawson, senior regional lead of government relations for the Pacific Northwest at Lime, framed the initiative as a response to local policy questions. He noted that transportation is directly on the ballot in Seattle this year. Dawson pointed to Seattle Proposition 1, a measure to fund additional bus service. "Transportation should never stand between someone and their ability to participate in democracy," Dawson said. "We encourage all voters to educate themselves on Seattle Proposition 1, which funds more bus service in Seattle."

The company is also collaborating with HeadCount, a national nonpartisan group focused on voter turnout. Through this partnership, the Lime app will direct users to an online voter hub. The hub provides registration tools and election information. Lucille Wenegieme, executive director of HeadCount, emphasized the need to lower barriers for voters. "Every eligible voter should have a fair shot at making their voice heard, and transportation should not stand in the way," Wenegieme said.

Eligible Lime account holders can redeem the promotion until Nov. 3. The discount cannot be stacked with other passes or group ride features. Lime stated that the promotion is nonpartisan and does not endorse or oppose any specific candidate or ballot measure. Riders must confirm their destination is inside an active service area before unlocking a vehicle.

The free ride program runs through Election Day. Users in the listed cities can access the offer via the mobile app. The company aims to support voter access while Seattle residents decide on public transit funding.