40th Legislative District

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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

2nd Congressional District

U.S. Representative

  • Rick Larsen photo
    Democrat

    Rick Larsen

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate, pragmatic Democrat who has been a strong advocate for jobs, transportation, and infrastructure projects in the 2nd District since he was first elected to Congress in 2000. He has also led efforts to protect voting rights, fought to reform student loans, and has been a champion of Wall Street reform. Unfortunately, Larsen angered many progressives with his support of the new contract that eliminated hard-earned pension benefits for Boeing machinists. Before serving in Congress he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett.

    Larsen's opponent, BJ Guillot, is running on an extremely conservative Tea Party platform. Larsen’s experience, broad support, and generally progressive track record make him a good choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Rick Larsen

    Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate, pragmatic Democrat who has been a strong advocate for jobs, transportation, and infrastructure projects in the 2nd District since he was first elected to Congress in 2000.

    Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate, pragmatic Democrat who has been a strong advocate for jobs, transportation, and infrastructure projects in the 2nd District since he was first elected to Congress in 2000. He has also led efforts to protect voting rights, fought to reform student loans, and has been a champion of Wall Street reform. Unfortunately, Larsen angered many progressives with his support of the new contract that eliminated hard-earned pension benefits for Boeing machinists. Before serving in Congress he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett.

    Larsen's opponent, BJ Guillot, is running on an extremely conservative Tea Party platform. Larsen’s experience, broad support, and generally progressive track record make him a good choice in this race.

    Rick Larsen

    Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate, pragmatic Democrat who has been a strong advocate for jobs, transportation, and infrastructure projects in the 2nd District since he was first elected to Congress in 2000.

    • Endorsed By: National Organization for Women, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, Bellingham-Whatcom County Firefighters, Snohomish County Democrats, Whatcom County Democrats, Washington State Young Democrats

40th Legislative District

State Representative, Position #1

State Representative, Position #2

  • Jeff Morris photo
    Democrat

    Jeff Morris

  • Representative Jeff Morris is the former House Democratic Floor Leader. He is a moderate Democrat who has sponsored numerous bills to protect the environment and promote alternative energy. He is running unopposed.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jeff Morris

    Representative Jeff Morris is the former House

    Democratic Floor Leader. He is a moderate Democrat who has sponsored numerous

    bills to protect the environment and promote alternative energy. He is running

    unopposed.

    Representative Jeff Morris is the former House Democratic Floor Leader. He is a moderate Democrat who has sponsored numerous bills to protect the environment and promote alternative energy. He is running unopposed.

    Jeff Morris

    Representative Jeff Morris is the former House

    Democratic Floor Leader. He is a moderate Democrat who has sponsored numerous

    bills to protect the environment and promote alternative energy. He is running

    unopposed.

County Races

Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.

San Juan County

San Juan County Prosecuting Attorney

  • Randall K. Gaylord photo
    Democrat

    Randall K. Gaylord

    Website
  • Randall Gaylord is running for his fifth term as Prosecuting Attorney. He has stated a dedication to serving the people and protecting the environment in his rulings. In his early career, he taught environmental and constitutional law classes at Gonzaga University. He is running unopposed.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Randall K. Gaylord

    Randall Gaylord is running for his fifth term as Prosecuting Attorney. He has stated a dedication to serving the people and protecting the environment in his rulings. In his early career, he taught environmental and constitutional law classes at Gonzaga University. He is running unopposed.

    Randall Gaylord is running for his fifth term as Prosecuting Attorney. He has stated a dedication to serving the people and protecting the environment in his rulings. In his early career, he taught environmental and constitutional law classes at Gonzaga University. He is running unopposed.

    Randall K. Gaylord

    Randall Gaylord is running for his fifth term as Prosecuting Attorney. He has stated a dedication to serving the people and protecting the environment in his rulings. In his early career, he taught environmental and constitutional law classes at Gonzaga University. He is running unopposed.

Skagit County

Skagit County Assessor

  • Tom L. Pasma photo
    Democrat

    Tom L. Pasma

    Website
  • Tom Pasma is a Democrat vying for the office of retiring Assessor Don Munks. He is a former chair of the 40th District Democrats who has worked closely with state lawmakers to create agricultural internships. Pasma carries the endorsement of the Skagit Democrats. His opponent is Dave Thomas, a Republican with 17 years of experience working in the assessor’s office, where he is currently senior residential appraiser. Pasma’s commitment to agriculture would be an important consideration in the office of county assessor.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Tom L. Pasma

    Tom Pasma is a Democrat vying for the office of retiring Assessor Don Munks. He is a former chair of the 40th District Democrats who has worked closely with state lawmakers to create agricultural internships. Pasma carries the endorsement of the Skagit Democrats.

    Tom Pasma is a Democrat vying for the office of retiring Assessor Don Munks. He is a former chair of the 40th District Democrats who has worked closely with state lawmakers to create agricultural internships. Pasma carries the endorsement of the Skagit Democrats. His opponent is Dave Thomas, a Republican with 17 years of experience working in the assessor’s office, where he is currently senior residential appraiser. Pasma’s commitment to agriculture would be an important consideration in the office of county assessor.

    Tom L. Pasma

    Tom Pasma is a Democrat vying for the office of retiring Assessor Don Munks. He is a former chair of the 40th District Democrats who has worked closely with state lawmakers to create agricultural internships. Pasma carries the endorsement of the Skagit Democrats.

Skagit County Auditor

  • Jeanne Youngquist photo
    Democrat

    Jeanne Youngquist

  • Incumbent Jeanne Youngquist has served as the Skagit County Auditor since 2007 and carries the Skagit Democrats' endorsement. Since 2009, Youngquist has been on the Board of Directors of the Skagit Women’s Alliance Network. As Auditor, Youngquist collaborated with other county offices to digitize and make myriad records available online for the public. She has enhanced the convenience of ballot boxes and spearheaded the Online Voter’s Guide for the county available through the Auditor’s website. Throughout her career, Youngquist has taken numerous steps to increase the transparency of the Skagit Auditor’s Office.

    Her challenger is Libertarian/Republican Cheryl D. Mitchell, Skagit Deputy Auditor for fifteen years. Mitchell has not presented a campaign plan or vision for what she wishes to accomplish. Youngquist’s proven commitment to government transparency makes her the better choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jeanne Youngquist

    Incumbent Jeanne Youngquist has served as the Skagit County Auditor since 2007 and carries the Skagit Democrats' endorsement. Since 2009, Youngquist has been on the Board of Directors of the Skagit Women’s Alliance Network.

    Incumbent Jeanne Youngquist has served as the Skagit County Auditor since 2007 and carries the Skagit Democrats' endorsement. Since 2009, Youngquist has been on the Board of Directors of the Skagit Women’s Alliance Network. As Auditor, Youngquist collaborated with other county offices to digitize and make myriad records available online for the public. She has enhanced the convenience of ballot boxes and spearheaded the Online Voter’s Guide for the county available through the Auditor’s website. Throughout her career, Youngquist has taken numerous steps to increase the transparency of the Skagit Auditor’s Office.

    Her challenger is Libertarian/Republican Cheryl D. Mitchell, Skagit Deputy Auditor for fifteen years. Mitchell has not presented a campaign plan or vision for what she wishes to accomplish. Youngquist’s proven commitment to government transparency makes her the better choice.

    Jeanne Youngquist

    Incumbent Jeanne Youngquist has served as the Skagit County Auditor since 2007 and carries the Skagit Democrats' endorsement. Since 2009, Youngquist has been on the Board of Directors of the Skagit Women’s Alliance Network.

Skagit County, District #3

Depending on where you live, you may have the following county races on your ballot.

Skagit County Commissioner, District #3

  • Lisa Janicki photo
    Democrat

    Lisa Janicki

    Website Facebook
  • Lisa Janicki is running to replace retiring Skagit Commissioner District 3, Sharon Dillon. Janicki has served twice as board president for the Economic Development Association of Skagit County and is CFO of Janicki Industries; such budgeting and planning experience would give her an edge as the county considers updates to its Comprehensive Plan. She is a board member for the United Way and an advisor to the board of Skagit Women Build - Habitat for Humanity.

    Her opponent is Kevin Loy. Loy has served on the Sedro-Woolley City Council, but offers no solutions or policy ideas. Going forward, Lisa Janicki is the best-qualified candidate.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lisa Janicki

    Lisa Janicki is running to replace retiring Skagit Commissioner District 3, Sharon Dillon.

    Lisa Janicki is running to replace retiring Skagit Commissioner District 3, Sharon Dillon. Janicki has served twice as board president for the Economic Development Association of Skagit County and is CFO of Janicki Industries; such budgeting and planning experience would give her an edge as the county considers updates to its Comprehensive Plan. She is a board member for the United Way and an advisor to the board of Skagit Women Build - Habitat for Humanity.

    Her opponent is Kevin Loy. Loy has served on the Sedro-Woolley City Council, but offers no solutions or policy ideas. Going forward, Lisa Janicki is the best-qualified candidate.

    Lisa Janicki

    Lisa Janicki is running to replace retiring Skagit Commissioner District 3, Sharon Dillon.

    • Endorsed By: Skagit County Democrats

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.

Charter Review Commission

The Charter Review Commission is elected every 10 years and is responsible for writing the rules for how the government operates, much like a county constitution. Depending on where you live you may have the following races on your ballot.

Charter Review Commission, Whatcom County, District #1

Charter Review Commission, District #1

  • Alie Walker photo

    Alie Walker

    Facebook
  • Alie Walker promises to work to ensure the charter maintains the principles of good governance. Walker wants to establish a balanced and thoughtful approach in the review process and believes any changes suggested by the commission should protect those assets vital to Whatcom County: the environment, a strong local economy and a family-focused community. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Walker would be a great choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Alie Walker

    Submitted by jay on

    Alie Walker promises to work to ensure the charter maintains the principles of good governance. Walker wants to establish a balanced and thoughtful approach in the review process and believes any changes suggested by the commission should protect those assets vital to Whatcom County: the environment, a strong local economy and a family-focused community. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Walker would be a great choice.

    Alie Walker promises to work to ensure the charter maintains the principles of good governance. Walker wants to establish a balanced and thoughtful approach in the review process and believes any changes suggested by the commission should protect those assets vital to Whatcom County: the environment, a strong local economy and a family-focused community. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Walker would be a great choice.

    Alie Walker

    Submitted by jay on

    Alie Walker promises to work to ensure the charter maintains the principles of good governance. Walker wants to establish a balanced and thoughtful approach in the review process and believes any changes suggested by the commission should protect those assets vital to Whatcom County: the environment, a strong local economy and a family-focused community. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Walker would be a great choice.

  • Barbara Ryan photo

    Barbara Ryan

  • Barbara Ryan retired at the end of 2009 after 12 years representing Ward 6 on the Bellingham City Council. She is a financial advisor with Waycross Investment Management Company, and is a current trustee of the Whatcom Museum. Previously, Ryan had a career in public relations for non-profit organizations. Of the five choices you must select for District 1, Ryan would be a great choice for the Charter Review Commission.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Barbara Ryan

    Submitted by jay on

    Barbara Ryan retired at the end of 2009 after 12 years representing Ward 6 on the Bellingham City Council. She is a financial advisor with Waycross Investment Management Company, and is a current trustee of the Whatcom Museum. Previously, Ryan had a career in public relations for non-profit organizations. Of the five choices you must select for District 1, Ryan would be a great choice for the Charter Review Commission.

    Barbara Ryan retired at the end of 2009 after 12 years representing Ward 6 on the Bellingham City Council. She is a financial advisor with Waycross Investment Management Company, and is a current trustee of the Whatcom Museum. Previously, Ryan had a career in public relations for non-profit organizations. Of the five choices you must select for District 1, Ryan would be a great choice for the Charter Review Commission.

    Barbara Ryan

    Submitted by jay on

    Barbara Ryan retired at the end of 2009 after 12 years representing Ward 6 on the Bellingham City Council. She is a financial advisor with Waycross Investment Management Company, and is a current trustee of the Whatcom Museum. Previously, Ryan had a career in public relations for non-profit organizations. Of the five choices you must select for District 1, Ryan would be a great choice for the Charter Review Commission.

  • Eli Mackiewicz photo

    Eli Mackiewicz

  • Eli Mackiewicz believes the Charter Review Commissioners should be focused on reviewing the charter, not going over changes already being made. He intends to view each change through the lens of what works best for the citizens of Whatcom County and make sound, reasonable, decisions. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Mackiewicz would be a good choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Eli Mackiewicz

    Submitted by jay on

    Eli Mackiewicz believes the Charter Review Commissioners should be focused on reviewing the charter, not going over changes already being made. He intends to view each change through the lens of what works best for the citizens of Whatcom County and make sound, reasonable, decisions. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Mackiewicz would be a good choice.

    Eli Mackiewicz believes the Charter Review Commissioners should be focused on reviewing the charter, not going over changes already being made. He intends to view each change through the lens of what works best for the citizens of Whatcom County and make sound, reasonable, decisions. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Mackiewicz would be a good choice.

    Eli Mackiewicz

    Submitted by jay on

    Eli Mackiewicz believes the Charter Review Commissioners should be focused on reviewing the charter, not going over changes already being made. He intends to view each change through the lens of what works best for the citizens of Whatcom County and make sound, reasonable, decisions. Of the five choices you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, Mackiewicz would be a good choice.

  • Thomas Stuen photo

    Thomas Stuen

  • Thomas Stuen is committed to protecting the Lake Whatcom watershed, limiting the impact of the coal and oil trains, and dealing with the county’s water shortage. Stuen served 20 years on the Bellingham Civil Service Commission and was a past officer and treasurer of Whatcom County’s volunteer lawyer program. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, he would be a great choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Thomas Stuen

    Submitted by jay on

    Thomas Stuen is committed to protecting the Lake Whatcom watershed, limiting the impact of the coal and oil trains, and dealing with the county’s water shortage. Stuen served 20 years on the Bellingham Civil Service Commission and was a past officer and treasurer of Whatcom County’s volunteer lawyer program. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, he would be a great choice.

    Thomas Stuen is committed to protecting the Lake Whatcom watershed, limiting the impact of the coal and oil trains, and dealing with the county’s water shortage. Stuen served 20 years on the Bellingham Civil Service Commission and was a past officer and treasurer of Whatcom County’s volunteer lawyer program. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, he would be a great choice.

    Thomas Stuen

    Submitted by jay on

    Thomas Stuen is committed to protecting the Lake Whatcom watershed, limiting the impact of the coal and oil trains, and dealing with the county’s water shortage. Stuen served 20 years on the Bellingham Civil Service Commission and was a past officer and treasurer of Whatcom County’s volunteer lawyer program. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 1, he would be a great choice.

  • Todd Donovan photo

    Todd Donovan

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  • Todd Donovan is a Western Washington University professor of political science. He is the Chair of the Washington Conservation Voters in Whatcom County, where he advocates for clean water and a safe place to call home. Of your five choices you must select for District 1, Donovan would be an excellent choice for Charter Review Commission.

    Bad choices in this race include Delaine Clizbe, a fundraiser for the pro-coal train group, Dick Donahue, a conservative with a radio show featuring an endorsement from Glenn Beck, and Orphalee Smith, who waged a write-in campaign against Seth Fleetwood in 2009.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Todd Donovan

    Submitted by jay on

    Todd Donovan is a Western Washington University professor of political science. He is the Chair of the Washington Conservation Voters in Whatcom County, where he advocates for clean water and a safe place to call home. Of your five choices you must select for District 1, Donovan would be an excellent choice for Charter Review Commission.



    Todd Donovan is a Western Washington University professor of political science. He is the Chair of the Washington Conservation Voters in Whatcom County, where he advocates for clean water and a safe place to call home. Of your five choices you must select for District 1, Donovan would be an excellent choice for Charter Review Commission.

    Bad choices in this race include Delaine Clizbe, a fundraiser for the pro-coal train group, Dick Donahue, a conservative with a radio show featuring an endorsement from Glenn Beck, and Orphalee Smith, who waged a write-in campaign against Seth Fleetwood in 2009.

    Todd Donovan

    Submitted by jay on

    Todd Donovan is a Western Washington University professor of political science. He is the Chair of the Washington Conservation Voters in Whatcom County, where he advocates for clean water and a safe place to call home. Of your five choices you must select for District 1, Donovan would be an excellent choice for Charter Review Commission.



Charter Review Commission, Whatcom County, District #2

Charter Review Commission, District #2

  • Bob Bandarra photo

    Bob Bandarra

  • Bob Bandarra was Commissioner on the Lynden Regional Parks and Recreation District, served as a Bothell City Councilman from 1999 to 2002, and was the Mayor of the City of Bothell from 2002 to 2004. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Bandarra would make an excellent choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Bob Bandarra

    Submitted by jay on

    Bob Bandarra was Commissioner on the Lynden Regional Parks and Recreation District, served as a Bothell City Councilman from 1999 to 2002, and was the Mayor of the City of Bothell from 2002 to 2004. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Bandarra would make an excellent choice.

    Bob Bandarra was Commissioner on the Lynden Regional Parks and Recreation District, served as a Bothell City Councilman from 1999 to 2002, and was the Mayor of the City of Bothell from 2002 to 2004. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Bandarra would make an excellent choice.

    Bob Bandarra

    Submitted by jay on

    Bob Bandarra was Commissioner on the Lynden Regional Parks and Recreation District, served as a Bothell City Councilman from 1999 to 2002, and was the Mayor of the City of Bothell from 2002 to 2004. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Bandarra would make an excellent choice.

  • Judd Morse photo

    Judd Morse

  • Judd Morse believes the best way to have a governing body that truly represents its entire constituency is to have the entire constituency voting on all aspects of the governing body. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Morse would make a great pick.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Judd Morse

    Submitted by jay on

    Judd Morse believes the best way to have a governing body that truly represents its entire constituency is to have the entire constituency voting on all aspects of the governing body. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Morse would make a great pick.

    Judd Morse believes the best way to have a governing body that truly represents its entire constituency is to have the entire constituency voting on all aspects of the governing body. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Morse would make a great pick.

    Judd Morse

    Submitted by jay on

    Judd Morse believes the best way to have a governing body that truly represents its entire constituency is to have the entire constituency voting on all aspects of the governing body. Of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, Morse would make a great pick.

  • Kate Blystone photo

    Kate Blystone

  • Kate Blystone is a former executive director of Futurewise Whatcom and a current RESources employee working on water issues. Blystone is devoted to serving the Whatcom community, and of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be an excellent choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Kate Blystone

    Submitted by jay on

    Kate Blystone is a former executive director of Futurewise Whatcom and a current RESources employee working on water issues. Blystone is devoted to serving the Whatcom community, and of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be an excellent choice.

    Kate Blystone is a former executive director of Futurewise Whatcom and a current RESources employee working on water issues. Blystone is devoted to serving the Whatcom community, and of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be an excellent choice.

    Kate Blystone

    Submitted by jay on

    Kate Blystone is a former executive director of Futurewise Whatcom and a current RESources employee working on water issues. Blystone is devoted to serving the Whatcom community, and of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be an excellent choice.

  • Sherry Nelson photo

    Sherry Nelson

  • Sherry Nelson serves on the board of directors for the Bellingham Music Festival and is a local progressive volunteer. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be a good choice.

    Bad choices in this race include Ben Elenbass and his brother Joe Elenbass, both far right conservatives. Joe was once charged with threatening a sheriff's deputy with a shotgun. Additional bad choices include Ken Bell, a former candidate who lost a race for the Port Commission, Chet Dow, a long time conservative Republican Party officer, and Larry Nicholas, who until recently served as chair of the Whatcom Libertarians.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sherry Nelson

    Submitted by jay on

    Sherry Nelson serves on the board of directors for the Bellingham Music Festival and is a local progressive volunteer. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be a good choice.



    Sherry Nelson serves on the board of directors for the Bellingham Music Festival and is a local progressive volunteer. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be a good choice.

    Bad choices in this race include Ben Elenbass and his brother Joe Elenbass, both far right conservatives. Joe was once charged with threatening a sheriff's deputy with a shotgun. Additional bad choices include Ken Bell, a former candidate who lost a race for the Port Commission, Chet Dow, a long time conservative Republican Party officer, and Larry Nicholas, who until recently served as chair of the Whatcom Libertarians.

    Sherry Nelson

    Submitted by jay on

    Sherry Nelson serves on the board of directors for the Bellingham Music Festival and is a local progressive volunteer. As one of the five candidates you must select for Charter Review Commission District 2, she would be a good choice.



  • Stan Snapp photo

    Stan Snapp

  • Stan Snapp is a former city councilman and firefighter. He is currently a Democratic precinct committee officer. Of the five candidates you must select in this race, Stan Snapp is a great choice for County Charter Review Commission, District 2.


    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Stan Snapp

    Submitted by jay on

    Stan Snapp is a former city councilman and firefighter. He is currently a Democratic precinct committee officer. Of the five candidates you must select in this race, Stan Snapp is a great choice for County Charter Review Commission, District 2.


    Stan Snapp is a former city councilman and firefighter. He is currently a Democratic precinct committee officer. Of the five candidates you must select in this race, Stan Snapp is a great choice for County Charter Review Commission, District 2.


    Stan Snapp

    Submitted by jay on

    Stan Snapp is a former city councilman and firefighter. He is currently a Democratic precinct committee officer. Of the five candidates you must select in this race, Stan Snapp is a great choice for County Charter Review Commission, District 2.


Charter Review Commission, Whatcom County, District #3

Charter Review Commission, District #3

  • Chris Johnson photo

    Chris Johnson

  • Chris Johnson is an electrician and vice-president of the Northwest Central Labor Council. Johnson opposes coal trains. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom County Commission District 3, he would be an excellent choice in this race.

    Bad choices in this race include Nick Evans, political director for the Whatcom Republicans, and Karl Uppiano, Whatcom Tea Party organizer.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Johnson

    Submitted by jay on

    Chris Johnson is an electrician and vice-president of the Northwest Central Labor Council. Johnson opposes coal trains. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom County Commission District 3, he would be an excellent choice in this race.



    Bad choices in this race include Nick Evans, political director for the Whatcom Republicans, and Karl Uppiano, Whatcom Tea Party organizer.

    Chris Johnson is an electrician and vice-president of the Northwest Central Labor Council. Johnson opposes coal trains. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom County Commission District 3, he would be an excellent choice in this race.

    Bad choices in this race include Nick Evans, political director for the Whatcom Republicans, and Karl Uppiano, Whatcom Tea Party organizer.

    Chris Johnson

    Submitted by jay on

    Chris Johnson is an electrician and vice-president of the Northwest Central Labor Council. Johnson opposes coal trains. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom County Commission District 3, he would be an excellent choice in this race.



    Bad choices in this race include Nick Evans, political director for the Whatcom Republicans, and Karl Uppiano, Whatcom Tea Party organizer.

  • John Lesow photo

    John Lesow

    Facebook
  • John Lesow is a long-time planning commissioner who identifies as independent and has supported reasonable land use policies over the last years, including compliance with the Growth Management Act. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he is a good choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    John Lesow

    Submitted by jay on

    John Lesow is a long-time planning commissioner who identifies as independent and has supported reasonable land use policies over the last years, including compliance with the Growth Management Act. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he is a good choice.

    John Lesow is a long-time planning commissioner who identifies as independent and has supported reasonable land use policies over the last years, including compliance with the Growth Management Act. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he is a good choice.

    John Lesow

    Submitted by jay on

    John Lesow is a long-time planning commissioner who identifies as independent and has supported reasonable land use policies over the last years, including compliance with the Growth Management Act. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he is a good choice.

  • John Munson photo

    John Munson

  • John Munson is a retired Longshoreman who has lived in the district for most of his life. He has been active working for progressive causes such as health care reform and a living wage for all. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, Munson is a good choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    John Munson

    Submitted by jay on

    John Munson is a retired Longshoreman who has lived in the district for most of his life. He has been active working for progressive causes such as health care reform and a living wage for all. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, Munson is a good choice.

    John Munson is a retired Longshoreman who has lived in the district for most of his life. He has been active working for progressive causes such as health care reform and a living wage for all. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, Munson is a good choice.

    John Munson

    Submitted by jay on

    John Munson is a retired Longshoreman who has lived in the district for most of his life. He has been active working for progressive causes such as health care reform and a living wage for all. Of the five candidates you must choose for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, Munson is a good choice.

  • Richard May photo

    Richard May

    Facebook
  • Richard May is a business owner, Blaine city planning commissioner, and former candidate for state legislature. Of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he would be a great choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Richard May

    Submitted by jay on

    Richard May is a business owner, Blaine city planning commissioner, and former candidate for state legislature. Of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he would be a great choice.

    Richard May is a business owner, Blaine city planning commissioner, and former candidate for state legislature. Of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he would be a great choice.

    Richard May

    Submitted by jay on

    Richard May is a business owner, Blaine city planning commissioner, and former candidate for state legislature. Of the five candidates you must select for Whatcom Charter Review Commission District 3, he would be a great choice.