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Statewide Ballot Measures

Initiative #1351

  • VOTE YES

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Washington state was ranked as having the fourth most crowded classrooms in the country, making it hard for teachers to teach and students to learn. Like I-728, which was approved by voters in the 2000 election, I-1351 defines specific class size goals that would be reached over four years. It sets a goal of 15 students per teacher in K-3 grades in schools that have high rates of poverty, with higher ratios set for grades beyond third. To meet these goals, schools would have to hire 7,500 new teachers across the state. Some progressives oppose I-1351 because it is expensive, does not include a funding source, and could preclude other important investments. We are recommending a yes vote to send a strong message to the legislature to fully fund education.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Washington state was ranked as having the fourth most crowded classrooms in the country, making it hard for teachers to teach and students to learn. Like I-728, which was approved by voters in the 2000 election, I-1351 defines specific class size goals that would be reached over four years. It sets a goal of 15 students per teacher in K-3 grades in schools that have high rates of poverty, with higher ratios set for grades beyond third. To meet these goals, schools would have to hire 7,500 new teachers across the state. Some progressives oppose I-1351 because it is expensive, does not include a funding source, and could preclude other important investments. We are recommending a yes vote to send a strong message to the legislature to fully fund education.
    Washington state was ranked as having the fourth most crowded classrooms in the country, making it hard for teachers to teach and students to learn. Like I-728, which was approved by voters in the 2000 election, I-1351 defines specific class size goals that would be reached over four years. It sets a goal of 15 students per teacher in K-3 grades in schools that have high rates of poverty, with higher ratios set for grades beyond third. To meet these goals, schools would have to hire 7,500 new teachers across the state. Some progressives oppose I-1351 because it is expensive, does not include a funding source, and could preclude other important investments. We are recommending a yes vote to send a strong message to the legislature to fully fund education.

    Vote YES for smaller class sizes

    Washington state was ranked as having the fourth most crowded classrooms in the country, making it hard for teachers to teach and students to learn. Like I-728, which was approved by voters in the 2000 election, I-1351 defines specific class size goals that would be reached over four years. It sets a goal of 15 students per teacher in K-3 grades in schools that have high rates of poverty, with higher ratios set for grades beyond third. To meet these goals, schools would have to hire 7,500 new teachers across the state.

    • Endorsed By The Stranger, Washington State Labor Council, Service Employees International Union, Washington CAN!, Bellevue School Board, Walla Walla School Board, Tacoma Council PTA

Initiative #591

  • VOTE NO

  • I-591 prevents Washington state from adopting any standards for background checks that are stronger than the relatively weak requirements in our Federal law. It would maintain the loophole that allows domestic abusers and other convicted criminals to purchase firearms over the Internet or in a parking lot. The gun lobby filed Initiative 591 to confuse and distract voters from supporting universal background checks. Vote no on Initiative 591.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    I-591 prevents Washington state from adopting any standards for background checks that are stronger than the relatively weak requirements in our Federal law. It would maintain the loophole that allows domestic abusers and other convicted criminals to purchase firearms over the Internet or in a parking lot. The gun lobby filed Initiative 591 to confuse and distract voters from supporting universal background checks. Vote no on Initiative 591.
    I-591 prevents Washington state from adopting any standards for background checks that are stronger than the relatively weak requirements in our Federal law. It would maintain the loophole that allows domestic abusers and other convicted criminals to purchase firearms over the Internet or in a parking lot. The gun lobby filed Initiative 591 to confuse and distract voters from supporting universal background checks. Vote no on Initiative 591.

    Vote NO on I-591

    I-591 prevents Washington state from adopting any standards for background checks that are stronger than the relatively weak requirements in our Federal law. It would maintain the loophole that allows domestic abusers and other convicted criminals to purchase firearms over the Internet or in a parking lot. The gun lobby filed Initiative 591 to confuse and distract voters from supporting universal background checks. Vote no on Initiative 591.

Initiative #594

  • VOTE YES

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Initiative 594 is simple: it makes sure that anyone buying a gun in Washington state passes the same background check, no matter where they buy the gun and no matter whom they buy it from. It closes the loophole in our law that allows criminals, domestic abusers and other dangerous people to buy guns from strangers – in parking lots, on the Internet, and at gun shows – with no questions asked.

    Criminal and public safety background checks dramatically reduce dangerous people’s access to guns. Supporters gathered more than 345,000 signatures to place this common sense proposal on the ballot after the legislature failed to act. Please vote yes on I-594 and ensure that we close the private gun sales loophole and help save lives.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Initiative 594 is simple: it makes sure that anyone buying a gun in Washington state passes the same background check, no matter where they buy the gun and no matter whom they buy it from. It closes the loophole in our law that allows criminals, domestic abusers and other dangerous people to buy guns from strangers – in parking lots, on the Internet, and at gun shows – with no questions asked.

    Criminal and public safety background checks dramatically reduce dangerous people’s access to guns. Supporters gathered more than 345,000 signatures to place this common sense proposal on the ballot after the legislature failed to act. Please vote yes on I-594 and ensure that we close the private gun sales loophole and help save lives.
    Initiative 594 is simple: it makes sure that anyone buying a gun in Washington state passes the same background check, no matter where they buy the gun and no matter whom they buy it from. It closes the loophole in our law that allows criminals, domestic abusers and other dangerous people to buy guns from strangers – in parking lots, on the Internet, and at gun shows – with no questions asked.

    Criminal and public safety background checks dramatically reduce dangerous people’s access to guns. Supporters gathered more than 345,000 signatures to place this common sense proposal on the ballot after the legislature failed to act. Please vote yes on I-594 and ensure that we close the private gun sales loophole and help save lives.

    Vote YES on I-594 – Universal Background Checks

    Initiative 594 is simple: it makes sure that anyone buying a gun in Washington state passes the same background check, no matter where they buy the gun and no matter whom they buy it from. It closes the loophole in our law that allows criminals, domestic abusers and other dangerous people to buy guns from strangers – in parking lots, on the Internet, and at gun shows – with no questions asked.



    • Endorsed By American Federation of Teachers - WA, Children's Campaign Fund, Fuse, The Stranger, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, Legal Voice, Greater Seattle Business Association, Faith Action Network, Doctors for America, MomsRising.org, Washington Academy of Family Physicians, Grandmothers Against Gun Violence

Advisory Vote #8

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote MAINTAINED on Statewide Advisory Ballot Measure #8

  • Thanks to a Tim Eyman initiative, the state legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. A bipartisan majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that marijuana is not a farm product eligible for tax breaks like wheat or dairy. The uncontroversial Senate Bill 6505 passed the legislature 112 to 42. Vote to "maintain" this measure.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Thanks to a Tim Eyman initiative, the state legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. A bipartisan majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that marijuana is not a farm product eligible for tax breaks like wheat or dairy. The uncontroversial Senate Bill 6505 passed the legislature 112 to 42. Vote to "maintain" this measure.
    Thanks to a Tim Eyman initiative, the state legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. A bipartisan majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that marijuana is not a farm product eligible for tax breaks like wheat or dairy. The uncontroversial Senate Bill 6505 passed the legislature 112 to 42. Vote to "maintain" this measure.

    Vote "Maintain" on Tax Advisory Vote No. 8

    Thanks to a Tim Eyman initiative, the state legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. A bipartisan majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that marijuana is not a farm product eligible for tax breaks like wheat or dairy. The uncontroversial Senate Bill 6505 passed the legislature 112 to 42. Vote to "maintain" this measure.

    • Endorsed By The Stranger

Advisory Vote #9

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote MAINTAINED on Statewide Advisory Ballot Measure #9

  • This is another Eyman advisory vote. An overwhelming majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that federally recognized Native American tribes must follow the same tax rules as state and local governments when it comes to privately leasing land that is owned exclusively by the tribe. The uncontroversial House Bill 1287 passed the legislature 93 to 44. Vote to "maintain" this measure.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    This is another Eyman advisory vote. An overwhelming majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that federally recognized Native American tribes must follow the same tax rules as state and local governments when it comes to privately leasing land that is owned exclusively by the tribe. The uncontroversial House Bill 1287 passed the legislature 93 to 44. Vote to "maintain" this measure.
    This is another Eyman advisory vote. An overwhelming majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that federally recognized Native American tribes must follow the same tax rules as state and local governments when it comes to privately leasing land that is owned exclusively by the tribe. The uncontroversial House Bill 1287 passed the legislature 93 to 44. Vote to "maintain" this measure.

    Vote "Maintain" on Tax Advisory Vote No. 9

    This is another Eyman advisory vote. An overwhelming majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that federally recognized Native American tribes must follow the same tax rules as state and local governments when it comes to privately leasing land that is owned exclusively by the tribe. The uncontroversial House Bill 1287 passed the legislature 93 to 44. Vote to "maintain" this measure.

    • Endorsed By The Stranger

Congress

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below congressional districts on your ballot.

8th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

  • Jason Ritchie photo
    Democrat

    Jason Ritchie

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Jason Ritchie is a rising star who is running an energetic campaign to defeat incumbent Dave Reichert. Ritchie started a business remodeling homes for people with disabilities after his father had a stroke and suffered from limited mobility. With a strong commitment to progressive values on issues such as immigration reform, protecting safe and legal access to abortion, and fully funding education, Ritchie would be a welcome change to the district.

    Conservative Republican Dave Reichert has passed only one law in the last 10 years--renaming a post office--and is an ineffective representative for the district. Ritchie deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jason Ritchie

    Jason Ritchie is a rising star who is running an energetic campaign to defeat incumbent Dave Reichert. Ritchie started a business remodeling homes for people with disabilities after his father had a stroke and suffered from limited mobility.

    Jason Ritchie is a rising star who is running an energetic campaign to defeat incumbent Dave Reichert. Ritchie started a business remodeling homes for people with disabilities after his father had a stroke and suffered from limited mobility. With a strong commitment to progressive values on issues such as immigration reform, protecting safe and legal access to abortion, and fully funding education, Ritchie would be a welcome change to the district.

    Conservative Republican Dave Reichert has passed only one law in the last 10 years--renaming a post office--and is an ineffective representative for the district. Ritchie deserves your vote.

    Jason Ritchie

    Jason Ritchie is a rising star who is running an energetic campaign to defeat incumbent Dave Reichert. Ritchie started a business remodeling homes for people with disabilities after his father had a stroke and suffered from limited mobility.

9th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

  • Adam Smith photo
    Democrat

    Adam Smith

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Representative Adam Smith has served in the U.S. House since 1997. Smith is a moderate Democrat who has been a reliable vote on progressive issues, including marriage equality and eliminating Don’t Ask, Don't Tell. Smith is also in favor of more progressive taxation and immigration reform. Smith has worked hard to connect with and represent his new constituents after this district changed considerably in the redistricting process. He continues to be an advocate for greater equality and fought House Republicans' efforts to slash food stamps in the most recent farm bill.

    Smith faces Republican Doug Basler, who is not running a competitive campaign. Smith deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Adam Smith

    Representative Adam Smith has served in the U.S. House since 1997. Smith is a moderate Democrat who has been a reliable vote on progressive issues, including marriage equality and eliminating Don’t Ask, Don't Tell. Smith is also in favor of more progressive taxation and immigration reform.

    Representative Adam Smith has served in the U.S. House since 1997. Smith is a moderate Democrat who has been a reliable vote on progressive issues, including marriage equality and eliminating Don’t Ask, Don't Tell. Smith is also in favor of more progressive taxation and immigration reform. Smith has worked hard to connect with and represent his new constituents after this district changed considerably in the redistricting process. He continues to be an advocate for greater equality and fought House Republicans' efforts to slash food stamps in the most recent farm bill.

    Smith faces Republican Doug Basler, who is not running a competitive campaign. Smith deserves your vote.

    Adam Smith

    Representative Adam Smith has served in the U.S. House since 1997. Smith is a moderate Democrat who has been a reliable vote on progressive issues, including marriage equality and eliminating Don’t Ask, Don't Tell. Smith is also in favor of more progressive taxation and immigration reform.

Legislative Races

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below legislative races on your ballot.

5th Legislative District

State Representative, Position #1

  • Essie Hicks photo
    Democrat

    Essie Hicks

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Essie Hicks is a small business owner who is running to improve our public schools. She currently serves as the Legislative Director for Issaquah Valley Elementary and previously volunteered as a PTA Legislative Liaison.

    Hicks is challenging Republican Jay Rodne, a socially-conservative hospital lawyer who has been an obstacle to expanding women's health protections. Hicks is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Essie Hicks

    Essie Hicks is a small business owner who is running to

    improve our public schools. She currently serves as the Legislative Director for

    Issaquah Valley Elementary and previously volunteered as a PTA Legislative

    Liaison.



    Essie Hicks is a small business owner who is running to improve our public schools. She currently serves as the Legislative Director for Issaquah Valley Elementary and previously volunteered as a PTA Legislative Liaison.

    Hicks is challenging Republican Jay Rodne, a socially-conservative hospital lawyer who has been an obstacle to expanding women's health protections. Hicks is the best choice in this race.

    Essie Hicks

    Essie Hicks is a small business owner who is running to

    improve our public schools. She currently serves as the Legislative Director for

    Issaquah Valley Elementary and previously volunteered as a PTA Legislative

    Liaison.



State Representative, Position #2

  • David Spring photo
    Democrat

    David Spring

    Website Facebook
  • David Spring is a teacher at Bellevue Community College and avid outdoorsman who is running for office to increase funding for education. David is a small business owner who has served as a volunteer on the King County and Washington State Planning Commissions. He currently is the leader of the Fair School Funding Coalition, a non-profit advocating for more school funding.

    His opponent, incumbent Chad Magendanz, is a conservative who has taken thousands of dollars from special interests, including Big Tobacco and Big Pharma, though he did receive an endorsement from our partners Planned Parenthood Votes Northwest for his stance on women's health. Spring is the better choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    David Spring

    David Spring is a teacher at Bellevue Community College

    and avid outdoorsman who is running for office to increase funding for

    education. David is a small business owner who has served as a volunteer on the

    David Spring is a teacher at Bellevue Community College and avid outdoorsman who is running for office to increase funding for education. David is a small business owner who has served as a volunteer on the King County and Washington State Planning Commissions. He currently is the leader of the Fair School Funding Coalition, a non-profit advocating for more school funding.

    His opponent, incumbent Chad Magendanz, is a conservative who has taken thousands of dollars from special interests, including Big Tobacco and Big Pharma, though he did receive an endorsement from our partners Planned Parenthood Votes Northwest for his stance on women's health. Spring is the better choice in this race.

    David Spring

    David Spring is a teacher at Bellevue Community College

    and avid outdoorsman who is running for office to increase funding for

    education. David is a small business owner who has served as a volunteer on the

11th Legislative District

State Representative, Position #1

  • Zack Hudgins photo
    Democrat

    Zack Hudgins

    Website Facebook
  • Representative Zack Hudgins is the clear choice of the progressive community for the 11th District. His track record of leadership on behalf of the environment, reproductive and equal rights, labor, and transportation choices make him an excellent candidate for re-election. He is unopposed in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Zack Hudgins

    Representative Zack Hudgins is the clear choice of the

    progressive community for the 11th District. His track record of leadership on

    behalf of the environment, reproductive and equal rights, labor, and

    Representative Zack Hudgins is the clear choice of the progressive community for the 11th District. His track record of leadership on behalf of the environment, reproductive and equal rights, labor, and transportation choices make him an excellent candidate for re-election. He is unopposed in this race.

    Zack Hudgins

    Representative Zack Hudgins is the clear choice of the

    progressive community for the 11th District. His track record of leadership on

    behalf of the environment, reproductive and equal rights, labor, and

State Representative, Position #2

  • Steve Bergquist photo
    Democrat

    Steve Bergquist

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Steve Bergquist is a public school teacher, union member, and small business owner. As a member of the House Education Committee, Steve was a great advocate for students and teachers. He is an active community volunteer and coach. Conservative Republican Sarah Sanoy-Wright is challenging him once again. Bergquist is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Steve Bergquist

    Steve Bergquist is a public school teacher, union

    member, and small business owner. As a member of the House Education Committee,

    Steve was a great advocate for students and teachers. He is an active community

    Steve Bergquist is a public school teacher, union member, and small business owner. As a member of the House Education Committee, Steve was a great advocate for students and teachers. He is an active community volunteer and coach. Conservative Republican Sarah Sanoy-Wright is challenging him once again. Bergquist is the best choice in this race.

    Steve Bergquist

    Steve Bergquist is a public school teacher, union

    member, and small business owner. As a member of the House Education Committee,

    Steve was a great advocate for students and teachers. He is an active community

47th Legislative District

State Senator

  • Carol Barber photo
    Democrat

    Carol Barber

    Facebook
  • Carol Barber is a small business owner who is running to fight for a living wage for working families and access to better jobs. She is progressive on a broad range of issues and has also been a leader with the 47th District Democrats. Unfortunately, Barber is not doing any fundraising. Her opponent is Joe Fain, a moderate Republican. To his credit, Fain has earned a few progressive endorsements by supporting both marriage equality and the Dream Act. However, Fain has chosen to stand with his extremely conservative Republican caucus on most issues, blocking progress on women’s reproductive health and a transportation package, for example. Barber is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Carol Barber

    Carol Barber is a small business owner who is running to

    fight for a living wage for working families and access to better jobs. She is

    progressive on a broad range of issues and has also been a leader with the 47th

    Carol Barber is a small business owner who is running to fight for a living wage for working families and access to better jobs. She is progressive on a broad range of issues and has also been a leader with the 47th District Democrats. Unfortunately, Barber is not doing any fundraising. Her opponent is Joe Fain, a moderate Republican. To his credit, Fain has earned a few progressive endorsements by supporting both marriage equality and the Dream Act. However, Fain has chosen to stand with his extremely conservative Republican caucus on most issues, blocking progress on women’s reproductive health and a transportation package, for example. Barber is the best choice in this race.

    Carol Barber

    Carol Barber is a small business owner who is running to

    fight for a living wage for working families and access to better jobs. She is

    progressive on a broad range of issues and has also been a leader with the 47th

    • Endorsed By: The Stranger

State Representative, Position #1

  • Chris Barringer photo
    Democrat

    Chris Barringer

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • As the Chief of Staff in the King County Sheriff's office, Chris Barringer has been on the front lines of fighting human trafficking, managing large budgets, and providing public accountability. Prior to that, Barringer was the policy lead on several pieces of legislation for the King County Council, including the Council’s Transparency in Taxation initiative and the Safer Neighborhoods Ordinance, both of which were passed unanimously by the Council.

    His opponent, Rep. Mark Hargrove, is a socially conservative Republican who barely won his seat in 2012. He received a low rating of "adequate" by the Municipal League of King County, the lowest rating any incumbent has received. He infamously compared marriage equality to a Jack in the Box commercial in a speech on the House floor. Barringer's background in public safety, strong display of transparency, and policy expertise make him a great choice to represent this district.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Barringer

    As the Chief of Staff in the King County Sheriff's

    office, Chris Barringer has been on the front lines of fighting human

    trafficking, managing large budgets, and providing public accountability. Prior

    As the Chief of Staff in the King County Sheriff's office, Chris Barringer has been on the front lines of fighting human trafficking, managing large budgets, and providing public accountability. Prior to that, Barringer was the policy lead on several pieces of legislation for the King County Council, including the Council’s Transparency in Taxation initiative and the Safer Neighborhoods Ordinance, both of which were passed unanimously by the Council.

    His opponent, Rep. Mark Hargrove, is a socially conservative Republican who barely won his seat in 2012. He received a low rating of "adequate" by the Municipal League of King County, the lowest rating any incumbent has received. He infamously compared marriage equality to a Jack in the Box commercial in a speech on the House floor. Barringer's background in public safety, strong display of transparency, and policy expertise make him a great choice to represent this district.

    Chris Barringer

    As the Chief of Staff in the King County Sheriff's

    office, Chris Barringer has been on the front lines of fighting human

    trafficking, managing large budgets, and providing public accountability. Prior

State Representative, Position #2

  • Pat Sullivan photo
    Democrat

    Pat Sullivan

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Representative Pat Sullivan is the former Mayor of Covington who currently serves as the Democratic Majority Leader. Sullivan is an effective progressive leader who has sponsored bills to invest more in our schools, deliver tax credits to small businesses, and strengthen laws against online predators.

    Sullivan's opponent, Barry Knowles, is a cookie-cutter Republican who would be an obstacle to progress in Olympia. Sullivan is the clear choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Pat Sullivan

    Representative Pat Sullivan is the former Mayor of

    Covington who currently serves as the Democratic Majority Leader. Sullivan is an

    effective progressive leader who has sponsored bills to invest more in our

    Representative Pat Sullivan is the former Mayor of Covington who currently serves as the Democratic Majority Leader. Sullivan is an effective progressive leader who has sponsored bills to invest more in our schools, deliver tax credits to small businesses, and strengthen laws against online predators.

    Sullivan's opponent, Barry Knowles, is a cookie-cutter Republican who would be an obstacle to progress in Olympia. Sullivan is the clear choice in this race.

    Pat Sullivan

    Representative Pat Sullivan is the former Mayor of

    Covington who currently serves as the Democratic Majority Leader. Sullivan is an

    effective progressive leader who has sponsored bills to invest more in our

King County

King County Prosecuting Attorney

  • Dan Satterberg photo
    Republican

    Dan Satterberg

    Website Endorsements
  • King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg is running unopposed for re-election. Satterberg is a competent prosecutor with broad support. He is a responsible, moderate voice who has endorsed I-594 to require background checks for all gun sales in Washington. He also dismissed all misdemeanor marijuana possessions immediately after voters approved I-502 to legalize marijuana in Washington. Satterberg deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Dan Satterberg

    King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg is running unopposed for re-election. Satterberg is a competent prosecutor with broad support. He is a responsible, moderate voice who has endorsed I-594 to require background checks for all gun sales in Washington.

    King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg is running unopposed for re-election. Satterberg is a competent prosecutor with broad support. He is a responsible, moderate voice who has endorsed I-594 to require background checks for all gun sales in Washington. He also dismissed all misdemeanor marijuana possessions immediately after voters approved I-502 to legalize marijuana in Washington. Satterberg deserves your vote.

    Dan Satterberg

    King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg is running unopposed for re-election. Satterberg is a competent prosecutor with broad support. He is a responsible, moderate voice who has endorsed I-594 to require background checks for all gun sales in Washington.

    • Endorsed By: SEIU 775, Teamsters Joint Council 28, King County Police Officers’ Guild, the Seattle Police Officers’ Guild, Teamsters Local Union 117, Teamsters Local Union 174, Teamsters Local Union 763

State Supreme Court

Justice, Position #1

  • Mary Yu photo

    Mary Yu

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • After serving as a trial court judge on the King County Superior Court for 14 years, Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu was appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee to fill a vacancy on the court. Justice Yu is the first Asian American and first member of the LGBT community to serve on the state Supreme Court. She is well known for writing a decision as a trial court judge that overturned a Tim Eyman-sponsored initiative that would have forced a re-vote on Sound Transit’s light rail. She has received the highest possible rating from six bar associations and was awarded the Municipal League Foundation’s “2013 Public Official of the Year.” Justice Mary Yu is extremely qualified and deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mary Yu

    After serving as a trial court judge on the King County Superior Court for 14 years, Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu was appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee to fill a vacancy on the court. Justice Yu is the first Asian American and first member of the LGBT community to serve on the state Supreme Court.

    After serving as a trial court judge on the King County Superior Court for 14 years, Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu was appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee to fill a vacancy on the court. Justice Yu is the first Asian American and first member of the LGBT community to serve on the state Supreme Court. She is well known for writing a decision as a trial court judge that overturned a Tim Eyman-sponsored initiative that would have forced a re-vote on Sound Transit’s light rail. She has received the highest possible rating from six bar associations and was awarded the Municipal League Foundation’s “2013 Public Official of the Year.” Justice Mary Yu is extremely qualified and deserves your vote.

    Mary Yu

    After serving as a trial court judge on the King County Superior Court for 14 years, Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu was appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee to fill a vacancy on the court. Justice Yu is the first Asian American and first member of the LGBT community to serve on the state Supreme Court.

    • Endorsed By: National Women's Political Caucus of WA, Washington State Labor Council, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, WA State Council of Firefighters, <br><br>King County Bar Association Rating: Exceptionally Well Qualified

Justice, Position #3

  • Mary E. Fairhurst photo

    Mary E. Fairhurst

    Facebook
  • Mary Fairhurst, who recently won a multi-year battle with cancer, is running unopposed for her third term on the Supreme Court. Fairhurst was the second woman, first public sector lawyer, and youngest attorney to serve as the President of the Washington State Bar Association. Throughout her career, she has worked to enhance opportunities for women and people of color in law and has been awarded many awards for her work. She has also led the first statewide conferences on domestic violence and planned and facilitated a youth violence summit. Fairhurst is running unopposed and deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mary E. Fairhurst

    Mary Fairhurst, who recently won a multi-year battle with cancer, is running unopposed for her third term on the Supreme Court. Fairhurst was the second woman, first public sector lawyer, and youngest attorney to serve as the President of the Washington State Bar Association.

    Mary Fairhurst, who recently won a multi-year battle with cancer, is running unopposed for her third term on the Supreme Court. Fairhurst was the second woman, first public sector lawyer, and youngest attorney to serve as the President of the Washington State Bar Association. Throughout her career, she has worked to enhance opportunities for women and people of color in law and has been awarded many awards for her work. She has also led the first statewide conferences on domestic violence and planned and facilitated a youth violence summit. Fairhurst is running unopposed and deserves your vote.

    Mary E. Fairhurst

    Mary Fairhurst, who recently won a multi-year battle with cancer, is running unopposed for her third term on the Supreme Court. Fairhurst was the second woman, first public sector lawyer, and youngest attorney to serve as the President of the Washington State Bar Association.

Justice, Position #4

  • Charles W. Johnson photo

    Charles W. Johnson

    Website Endorsements
  • Charles Johnson is the most senior member of the Washington state Supreme Court, having spent 24 years protecting individual rights, ensuring government accountability, and working to ensure those who are less privileged have equal opportunities to succeed. He is endorsed by a number of Republicans and Democrats alike for his fairness, integrity, and impartiality. Johnson's opponent, Eddie Yoon, became the first Korean-American attorney in the Northwest and has spent a large part of his career working on international issues, including his current role teaching at a women's law school in Seoul. Johnson deserves your vote due to his ratings from a number of lawyers' groups as "exceptionally well-qualified" and his support from a large number of our partners.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Charles W. Johnson

    Charles Johnson is the most senior member of the Washington state Supreme Court, having spent 24 years protecting individual rights, ensuring government accountability, and working to ensure those who are less privileged have equal opportunities to succeed.

    Charles Johnson is the most senior member of the Washington state Supreme Court, having spent 24 years protecting individual rights, ensuring government accountability, and working to ensure those who are less privileged have equal opportunities to succeed. He is endorsed by a number of Republicans and Democrats alike for his fairness, integrity, and impartiality. Johnson's opponent, Eddie Yoon, became the first Korean-American attorney in the Northwest and has spent a large part of his career working on international issues, including his current role teaching at a women's law school in Seoul. Johnson deserves your vote due to his ratings from a number of lawyers' groups as "exceptionally well-qualified" and his support from a large number of our partners.

    Charles W. Johnson

    Charles Johnson is the most senior member of the Washington state Supreme Court, having spent 24 years protecting individual rights, ensuring government accountability, and working to ensure those who are less privileged have equal opportunities to succeed.

    • Endorsed By: The Stranger, Washington State Labor Council, Teamsters Joint Council 28, Pro-Choice Washington, WA State Council of Firefighters, <br><br>King County Bar Association Rating: Exceptionally Well Qualified

Justice, Position #7

  • Debra Stephens photo

    Debra Stephens

    Facebook
  • Debra Stephens was elected to the state Supreme Court in 2008 after many years in public service. She spent a decade serving students on the school board and mentored at-risk high school students as well as students at Gonzaga University. Stephens is also the first woman from Eastern Washington to serve on the Supreme Court. She has been rated exceptionally well-qualified by numerous legal groups and endorsed by a number of progressives. Her opponent, John (Zamboni) Scannell, is a disbarred attorney and Seattle activist who is running to change the Washington attorney disciplinary system. Due to her years of public service and experience, Stephens deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Debra Stephens

    Debra Stephens was elected to the state Supreme Court in 2008 after many years in public service. She spent a decade serving students on the school board and mentored at-risk high school students as well as students at Gonzaga University.

    Debra Stephens was elected to the state Supreme Court in 2008 after many years in public service. She spent a decade serving students on the school board and mentored at-risk high school students as well as students at Gonzaga University. Stephens is also the first woman from Eastern Washington to serve on the Supreme Court. She has been rated exceptionally well-qualified by numerous legal groups and endorsed by a number of progressives. Her opponent, John (Zamboni) Scannell, is a disbarred attorney and Seattle activist who is running to change the Washington attorney disciplinary system. Due to her years of public service and experience, Stephens deserves your vote.

    Debra Stephens

    Debra Stephens was elected to the state Supreme Court in 2008 after many years in public service. She spent a decade serving students on the school board and mentored at-risk high school students as well as students at Gonzaga University.

District Court

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below court races on your ballot. The Progressive Voters Guide may skip recommendations for unopposed judicial races.

Northeast District Court

Northeast District Court Judge, Position #1

  • Janet Garrow photo

    Janet Garrow

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Janet Garrow is a member of the LGBT community who has served the Eastside as a judge for 16 years with fairness, impartiality, and respect. She has been rated exceptionally well qualified by a number of the legal groups. Her opponent, Dawn Bettinger, has not run a very active campaign. Garrow is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Janet Garrow

    Janet Garrow is a member of the LGBT community who has served the Eastside as a judge for 16 years with fairness, impartiality, and respect. She has been rated exceptionally well qualified by a number of the legal groups. Her opponent, Dawn Bettinger, has not run a very active campaign.

    Janet Garrow is a member of the LGBT community who has served the Eastside as a judge for 16 years with fairness, impartiality, and respect. She has been rated exceptionally well qualified by a number of the legal groups. Her opponent, Dawn Bettinger, has not run a very active campaign. Garrow is the best choice in this race.

    Janet Garrow

    Janet Garrow is a member of the LGBT community who has served the Eastside as a judge for 16 years with fairness, impartiality, and respect. She has been rated exceptionally well qualified by a number of the legal groups. Her opponent, Dawn Bettinger, has not run a very active campaign.

    • Endorsed By: National Women's Political Caucus of WA, The Stranger, King County Labor Council <br><br> King County Bar Association Rating: Exceptionally Well Qualified

Northeast District Court Judge, Position #2

  • Ketu Shah photo

    Ketu Shah

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Ketu Shah has more than 20 years of legal experience. As a prosecutor, he created the domestic violence unit in Bellevue to hold domestic abusers accountable. He has been rated exceptionally well qualified by a number of lawyers' groups and has been endorsed by dozens of statewide judges, local judges, organizations, and law enforcement groups. Shah is also the only South Asian American judge in the entire state of Washington.

    His opponent, Sarah Hayne, is also progressive but lacks his experience and qualifications and has not been rated by local bar associations. Shah deserves your vote to retain his seat on the bench.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Ketu Shah

    Ketu Shah has more than 20 years of legal experience. As a prosecutor, he created the domestic violence unit in Bellevue to hold domestic abusers accountable.

    Ketu Shah has more than 20 years of legal experience. As a prosecutor, he created the domestic violence unit in Bellevue to hold domestic abusers accountable. He has been rated exceptionally well qualified by a number of lawyers' groups and has been endorsed by dozens of statewide judges, local judges, organizations, and law enforcement groups. Shah is also the only South Asian American judge in the entire state of Washington.

    His opponent, Sarah Hayne, is also progressive but lacks his experience and qualifications and has not been rated by local bar associations. Shah deserves your vote to retain his seat on the bench.

    Ketu Shah

    Ketu Shah has more than 20 years of legal experience. As a prosecutor, he created the domestic violence unit in Bellevue to hold domestic abusers accountable.

    • Endorsed By: The Stranger, Teamsters Joint Council 28, King County Labor Council <br><br> King County Bar Association Rating: Exceptionally Well Qualified

Northeast District Court Judge, Position #3

  • Marcus Naylor photo

    Marcus Naylor

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Marcus Naylor has 22 years of experience working in all the courts of King County. Having conducted over 100 jury trials and working as a part-time judge for almost four years, he has the depth and breath of experience that will result in competent administration of justice. Naylor has been endorsed by both the King County Democrats and the King County Republicans, as well as a large variety of people who understand the difficult decisions he makes every day: judges, prosecutors, attorneys, clerks, bailiffs, probation officers, and corrections officers.

    His opponent, Lisa O'Toole, is also well qualified and has been endorsed by many Republicans and Democrats. We lean toward Naylor in this race based on his engagement with the social justice community.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Marcus Naylor

    Marcus Naylor has 22 years of experience working in all the courts of King County. Having conducted over 100 jury trials and working as a part-time judge for almost four years, he has the depth and breath of experience that will result in competent administration of justice.

    Marcus Naylor has 22 years of experience working in all the courts of King County. Having conducted over 100 jury trials and working as a part-time judge for almost four years, he has the depth and breath of experience that will result in competent administration of justice. Naylor has been endorsed by both the King County Democrats and the King County Republicans, as well as a large variety of people who understand the difficult decisions he makes every day: judges, prosecutors, attorneys, clerks, bailiffs, probation officers, and corrections officers.

    His opponent, Lisa O'Toole, is also well qualified and has been endorsed by many Republicans and Democrats. We lean toward Naylor in this race based on his engagement with the social justice community.

    Marcus Naylor

    Marcus Naylor has 22 years of experience working in all the courts of King County. Having conducted over 100 jury trials and working as a part-time judge for almost four years, he has the depth and breath of experience that will result in competent administration of justice.

    • Endorsed By: King County Bar Association Rating: Exceptionally Well Qualified

West District Court

West District Court Judge, Position #2

  • Mark Chow photo

    Mark Chow

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Mark Chow has more than 24 years of experience as a judge. Chow was one of the first Asian Americans to graduate from UW Law School and is a progressive leader in the Chinese American community. He has been endorsed by eight members of the state Supreme Court, countless statewide and local judges, community leaders, and individuals.

    Chow's opponent, Phillip Tavel, is a young progressive running a low key campaign whom we hope runs for judge again in the future. With Chow's commitment to the community, experience, and support, he deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mark Chow

    Mark Chow has more than 24 years of experience as a judge. Chow was one of the first Asian Americans to graduate from UW Law School and is a progressive leader in the Chinese American community.

    Mark Chow has more than 24 years of experience as a judge. Chow was one of the first Asian Americans to graduate from UW Law School and is a progressive leader in the Chinese American community. He has been endorsed by eight members of the state Supreme Court, countless statewide and local judges, community leaders, and individuals.

    Chow's opponent, Phillip Tavel, is a young progressive running a low key campaign whom we hope runs for judge again in the future. With Chow's commitment to the community, experience, and support, he deserves your vote.

    Mark Chow

    Mark Chow has more than 24 years of experience as a judge. Chow was one of the first Asian Americans to graduate from UW Law School and is a progressive leader in the Chinese American community.

    • Endorsed By: The Stranger, King County Labor Council

King County Superior Court

King County Superior Court Judge, Position #8

  • John Ruhl photo

    John Ruhl

    Website Endorsements
  • Judge Ruhl was appointed by Governor Inslee in March of 2014 to replace the retiring Judge White. Before his appointment, he was an attorney with Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland, working in banking and commercial litigation. Ruhl is a past president of the King County Bar Association and is the founding president and former board member of the Dispute Resolution Center of King County. He helped found the website VotingForJudges.org, a nonpartisan resource for information on judicial candidates. Ruhl deserves your vote.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    John Ruhl

    Judge Ruhl was appointed by Governor Inslee in March of 2014 to replace the retiring Judge White. Before his appointment, he was an attorney with Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland, working in banking and commercial litigation.

    Judge Ruhl was appointed by Governor Inslee in March of 2014 to replace the retiring Judge White. Before his appointment, he was an attorney with Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland, working in banking and commercial litigation. Ruhl is a past president of the King County Bar Association and is the founding president and former board member of the Dispute Resolution Center of King County. He helped found the website VotingForJudges.org, a nonpartisan resource for information on judicial candidates. Ruhl deserves your vote.

    John Ruhl

    Judge Ruhl was appointed by Governor Inslee in March of 2014 to replace the retiring Judge White. Before his appointment, he was an attorney with Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland, working in banking and commercial litigation.

    • Endorsed By: King County Bar Association Rating: Exceptionally Well Qualified