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  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote YES on Charter Amendment No. 47

  • Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers. Charter amendment number 47 would allow councilmembers to serve one additional term for a total of three consecutive 4-year terms in office. The goal is to strike a balance of allowing councilmembers to gain experience so they can better serve their constituents, while maintaining term limits for elected officials.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers. Charter amendment number 47 would allow councilmembers to serve one additional term for a total of three consecutive 4-year terms in office. The goal is to strike a balance of allowing councilmembers to gain experience so they can better serve their constituents, while maintaining term limits for elected officials.
    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers. Charter amendment number 47 would allow councilmembers to serve one additional term for a total of three consecutive 4-year terms in office. The goal is to strike a balance of allowing councilmembers to gain experience so they can better serve their constituents, while maintaining term limits for elected officials.

    Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47

    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers.

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained on Advisory Vote 16

  • A bipartisan group of legislators passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1597, which included a small excise tax in order to increase environmental protections for regional fish and wildlife. Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 16.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    A bipartisan group of legislators passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1597, which included a small excise tax in order to increase environmental protections for regional fish and wildlife. Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 16.
    A bipartisan group of legislators passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1597, which included a small excise tax in order to increase environmental protections for regional fish and wildlife. Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 16.

    Advisory Vote No. 16

    A bipartisan group of legislators passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1597, which included a small excise tax in order to increase environmental protections for regional fish and wildlife. Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 16.

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained on Advisory Vote 17

  • Our state has been under Supreme Court order to fully fund education for several years. This June, Republicans and Democrats came together to approve a bipartisan package of revenue increases for public schools, including expanding the Business and Occupation tax. While this does not solve the education funding problem, the package goes a long way towards providing a quality education for all students. This non-binding advisory vote is required thanks to a Tim Eyman ballot measure. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 17.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Our state has been under Supreme Court order to fully fund education for several years. This June, Republicans and Democrats came together to approve a bipartisan package of revenue increases for public schools, including expanding the Business and Occupation tax. While this does not solve the education funding problem, the package goes a long way towards providing a quality education for all students. This non-binding advisory vote is required thanks to a Tim Eyman ballot measure. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 17.
    Our state has been under Supreme Court order to fully fund education for several years. This June, Republicans and Democrats came together to approve a bipartisan package of revenue increases for public schools, including expanding the Business and Occupation tax. While this does not solve the education funding problem, the package goes a long way towards providing a quality education for all students. This non-binding advisory vote is required thanks to a Tim Eyman ballot measure. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 17.
    Our state has been under Supreme Court order to fully fund education for several years. This June, Republicans and Democrats came together to approve a bipartisan package of revenue increases for public schools, including expanding the Business and Occupation tax. While this does not solve the education funding problem, the package goes a long way towards providing a quality education for all students.
  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained on Advisory Vote 18

  • In addition to the business taxes covered in Advisory Vote 17, a strong bipartisan majority of state legislators voted to increase local property taxes to fund schools. We have concerns about raising regressive property taxes that disproportionately impact working families and make our upside-down tax code even worse. However, we are optimistic about retaking the state Senate this fall and working with progressives in Olympia next year to reduce this tax and instead make the wealthy pay their fair share.

    Like the other advisory votes, this is a non-binding measure required by a Tim Eyman ballot initiative. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 18.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    In addition to the business taxes covered in Advisory Vote 17, a strong bipartisan majority of state legislators voted to increase local property taxes to fund schools. We have concerns about raising regressive property taxes that disproportionately impact working families and make our upside-down tax code even worse. However, we are optimistic about retaking the state Senate this fall and working with progressives in Olympia next year to reduce this tax and instead make the wealthy pay their fair share.

    Like the other advisory votes, this is a non-binding measure required by a Tim Eyman ballot initiative. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 18.
    In addition to the business taxes covered in Advisory Vote 17, a strong bipartisan majority of state legislators voted to increase local property taxes to fund schools. We have concerns about raising regressive property taxes that disproportionately impact working families and make our upside-down tax code even worse. However, we are optimistic about retaking the state Senate this fall and working with progressives in Olympia next year to reduce this tax and instead make the wealthy pay their fair share.

    Like the other advisory votes, this is a non-binding measure required by a Tim Eyman ballot initiative. Vote “Maintained” on Advisory Vote 18.
    In addition to the legislation covered by Advisory Vote 17, a strong bipartisan majority of state legislators voted to increase local property taxes to fund schools. We have concerns about raising regressive property taxes that disproportionately impact working families and make our upside-down tax code even worse. However, we are optimistic about retaking the state Senate this fall and working with progressives in Olympia next year to reduce this tax and instead make the wealthy pay their fair share.
  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote YES on Charter Amendment No. 46

  • Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 46. This charter amendment clarifies the appointment process by outlining two processes for filing vacancies in Pierce County elected offices. It would enable the County Council to solicit applications for all non partisan vacancies, thereby increasing the pool of qualified applicants. For partisan vacancies, the charter amendment stipulates that the county political party nominates three qualified candidates for the council to pick from. Voters should vote YES on this charter amendment.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 46. This charter amendment clarifies the appointment process by outlining two processes for filing vacancies in Pierce County elected offices. It would enable the County Council to solicit applications for all non partisan vacancies, thereby increasing the pool of qualified applicants. For partisan vacancies, the charter amendment stipulates that the county political party nominates three qualified candidates for the council to pick from. Voters should vote YES on this charter amendment.
    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 46. This charter amendment clarifies the appointment process by outlining two processes for filing vacancies in Pierce County elected offices. It would enable the County Council to solicit applications for all non partisan vacancies, thereby increasing the pool of qualified applicants. For partisan vacancies, the charter amendment stipulates that the county political party nominates three qualified candidates for the council to pick from. Voters should vote YES on this charter amendment.

    Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 46

    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 46. This charter amendment clarifies the appointment process by outlining two processes for filing vacancies in Pierce County elected offices.

  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote YES on Charter Amendment No. 47

  • Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers. Charter amendment number 47 would allow councilmembers to serve one additional term for a total of three consecutive 4-year terms in office. The goal is to strike a balance of allowing councilmembers to gain experience so they can better serve their constituents, while maintaining term limits for elected officials.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers. Charter amendment number 47 would allow councilmembers to serve one additional term for a total of three consecutive 4-year terms in office. The goal is to strike a balance of allowing councilmembers to gain experience so they can better serve their constituents, while maintaining term limits for elected officials.
    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers. Charter amendment number 47 would allow councilmembers to serve one additional term for a total of three consecutive 4-year terms in office. The goal is to strike a balance of allowing councilmembers to gain experience so they can better serve their constituents, while maintaining term limits for elected officials.

    Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47

    Voters should vote YES on Pierce County Charter Amendment No. 47. Pierce County is one of the few counties in Washington state with term limits for county councilmembers.

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

  • Michelle Rylands is an Army veteran and PTA president running against incumbent Senator Phil Fortunato. She is strongly in favor of fully funding K-12 education, and also advocates for fixing our state's upside-down tax code and helping local small businesses.

    Fortunato was chosen by Republicans to replace long-time senator Pam Roach. While he is very conservative on many issues, he deserves credit for playing a key role in breaking the final state budget impasse this year by pushing his Republican colleagues to fund the contracts of state employees. Nevertheless, Rylands is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Michelle Rylands

    Michelle Rylands is an Army veteran and PTA president running against incumbent Senator Phil Fortunato. She is strongly in favor of fully funding K-12 education, and also advocates for fixing our state's upside-down tax code and helping local small businesses.

    Michelle Rylands is an Army veteran and PTA president running against incumbent Senator Phil Fortunato. She is strongly in favor of fully funding K-12 education, and also advocates for fixing our state's upside-down tax code and helping local small businesses.

    Fortunato was chosen by Republicans to replace long-time senator Pam Roach. While he is very conservative on many issues, he deserves credit for playing a key role in breaking the final state budget impasse this year by pushing his Republican colleagues to fund the contracts of state employees. Nevertheless, Rylands is the best choice in this race.

    Michelle Rylands

    Michelle Rylands is an Army veteran and PTA president running against incumbent Senator Phil Fortunato. She is strongly in favor of fully funding K-12 education, and also advocates for fixing our state's upside-down tax code and helping local small businesses.

  • Edgewood City Councilmember Nate Lowry is a landscape architect who has been a strong progressive voice in the community. He's running for the 31st District House seat to fix Washington's upside-down tax code and fund Head Start and STEM education. He is running against Republican Morgan Irwin, who was recently appointed to this seat and has not demonstrated progressive values. Lowry is the better choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Nate Lowry

    Edgewood City Councilmember Nate Lowry is a landscape architect who has been a strong progressive voice in the community. He's running for the 31st District House seat to fix Washington's upside-down tax code and fund Head Start and STEM education.

    Edgewood City Councilmember Nate Lowry is a landscape architect who has been a strong progressive voice in the community. He's running for the 31st District House seat to fix Washington's upside-down tax code and fund Head Start and STEM education. He is running against Republican Morgan Irwin, who was recently appointed to this seat and has not demonstrated progressive values. Lowry is the better choice in this race.

    Nate Lowry

    Edgewood City Councilmember Nate Lowry is a landscape architect who has been a strong progressive voice in the community. He's running for the 31st District House seat to fix Washington's upside-down tax code and fund Head Start and STEM education.

  • John McCarthy is running for the Tacoma Port Commissioner Position 1 against army veteran and port security specialist Eric Holdman. McCarthy served as a Tacoma Port Commissioner from 1983 to 1992, and a Pierce County District Court judge for 22 years. While McCarthy is not the most progressive candidate, his previous experience and community involvement makes him the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    John McCarthy

    Submitted by jay on Tue, 08/15/2017 - 13:16

    John McCarthy is running for the Tacoma Port Commissioner Position 1 against army veteran and port security specialist Eric Holdman. McCarthy served as a Tacoma Port Commissioner from 1983 to 1992, and a Pierce County District Court judge for 22 years.

    John McCarthy is running for the Tacoma Port Commissioner Position 1 against army veteran and port security specialist Eric Holdman. McCarthy served as a Tacoma Port Commissioner from 1983 to 1992, and a Pierce County District Court judge for 22 years. While McCarthy is not the most progressive candidate, his previous experience and community involvement makes him the best choice in this race.

    John McCarthy

    Submitted by jay on Tue, 08/15/2017 - 13:16

    John McCarthy is running for the Tacoma Port Commissioner Position 1 against army veteran and port security specialist Eric Holdman. McCarthy served as a Tacoma Port Commissioner from 1983 to 1992, and a Pierce County District Court judge for 22 years.

  • Endorsed By: Equal Rights Washington, Sierra Club, WA Federation of State Employees, Tacoma - Pierce County Black Collective, Tacoma Firefighters IAFF Local 31, Pierce County Central Labor Council

City Races

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

  • Elected in 2014, financial manager Nancy Backus is the first female mayor of Auburn. Prior to her first term, she served on the city council for 10 years as Chair of the Finance Committee and the Planning & Community Development Committee. Backus' first term is backed by an impressive list of accomplishments. Backus has made economic development a priority, including welcoming new small businesses to the downtown area, launching a downtown facade improvement program, and seeking additional expansion from Boeing. As a result, unemployment in Auburn is among the lowest in the state. In 2016, the mayor led the charge for a homelessness task force and the city is currently working on 40 of the 56 recommendations issued by the task force, including extending availability at the emergency shelter.

    Backus is running against city councilmember and deputy mayor Largo Wales. Wales' campaign is focused on public safety and funding local infrastructure, but her platform also includes anti-homeless measures such as moving all care and housing programs away from the central areas and into industrial zones.

    Backus' leadership has earned her another term.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Nancy Backus

    Elected in 2014, financial manager Nancy Backus is the first female mayor of Auburn. Prior to her first term, she served on the city council for 10 years as Chair of the Finance Committee and the Planning & Community Development Committee.

    Elected in 2014, financial manager Nancy Backus is the first female mayor of Auburn. Prior to her first term, she served on the city council for 10 years as Chair of the Finance Committee and the Planning & Community Development Committee. Backus' first term is backed by an impressive list of accomplishments. Backus has made economic development a priority, including welcoming new small businesses to the downtown area, launching a downtown facade improvement program, and seeking additional expansion from Boeing. As a result, unemployment in Auburn is among the lowest in the state. In 2016, the mayor led the charge for a homelessness task force and the city is currently working on 40 of the 56 recommendations issued by the task force, including extending availability at the emergency shelter.

    Backus is running against city councilmember and deputy mayor Largo Wales. Wales' campaign is focused on public safety and funding local infrastructure, but her platform also includes anti-homeless measures such as moving all care and housing programs away from the central areas and into industrial zones.

    Backus' leadership has earned her another term.

    Nancy Backus

    Elected in 2014, financial manager Nancy Backus is the first female mayor of Auburn. Prior to her first term, she served on the city council for 10 years as Chair of the Finance Committee and the Planning & Community Development Committee.

  • Yolanda Trout-Manuel is running unopposed to retain her seat in Position 4. She serves as Chair of the Finance Committee and she is a well-known advocate for traffic safety and for her domestic violence work. She received a 2015 Outstanding Award from the local Domestic Violence Task Force and an Outstanding Citizen Activist Award for Excellence in Traffic Safety from the Washington Traffic Safety Commissioners for her work on Washington's Highway 12. Trout-Manuel serves on several regional and national boards, including the Puget Sound Latino Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Elective Legislative Officials, and the National League of Cities. She plans to focus the upcoming years on homelessness, public safety, and the economic health of Auburn.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Yolanda Trout-Manuel

    Yolanda Trout-Manuel is running unopposed to retain her seat in Position 4. She serves as Chair of the Finance Committee and she is a well-known advocate for traffic safety and for her domestic violence work.

    Yolanda Trout-Manuel is running unopposed to retain her seat in Position 4. She serves as Chair of the Finance Committee and she is a well-known advocate for traffic safety and for her domestic violence work. She received a 2015 Outstanding Award from the local Domestic Violence Task Force and an Outstanding Citizen Activist Award for Excellence in Traffic Safety from the Washington Traffic Safety Commissioners for her work on Washington's Highway 12. Trout-Manuel serves on several regional and national boards, including the Puget Sound Latino Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Elective Legislative Officials, and the National League of Cities. She plans to focus the upcoming years on homelessness, public safety, and the economic health of Auburn.

    Yolanda Trout-Manuel

    Yolanda Trout-Manuel is running unopposed to retain her seat in Position 4. She serves as Chair of the Finance Committee and she is a well-known advocate for traffic safety and for her domestic violence work.

  • U.S. Navy veteran Larry Brown is the Legislative and Political Director for the Aerospace Machinists District Lodge 751. A strong advocate for workers, Brown has worked on the Governor’s Unemployment Task Force and the labor caucus for the Labor and Industries Workers Comp Advisory Committee. He is running on a jobs agenda that seeks to reduce commute times for workers, emphasize education and workforce training, and bring in more technology jobs.

    Brown is opposed by Mike Kahler, a manager at the Auburn Valley Humane Society’s Thrift Store. Kahler promotes an enforcement of the city's anti-loitering and panhandling laws to force the homeless from storefronts.

    Brown's experience and commitment to progressive values makes him the clear choice for Auburn City Council Position 6.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Larry Brown

    U.S. Navy veteran Larry Brown is the Legislative and Political Director for the Aerospace Machinists District Lodge 751. A strong advocate for workers, Brown has worked on the Governor’s Unemployment Task Force and the labor caucus for the Labor and Industries Workers Comp Advisory Committee.

    U.S. Navy veteran Larry Brown is the Legislative and Political Director for the Aerospace Machinists District Lodge 751. A strong advocate for workers, Brown has worked on the Governor’s Unemployment Task Force and the labor caucus for the Labor and Industries Workers Comp Advisory Committee. He is running on a jobs agenda that seeks to reduce commute times for workers, emphasize education and workforce training, and bring in more technology jobs.

    Brown is opposed by Mike Kahler, a manager at the Auburn Valley Humane Society’s Thrift Store. Kahler promotes an enforcement of the city's anti-loitering and panhandling laws to force the homeless from storefronts.

    Brown's experience and commitment to progressive values makes him the clear choice for Auburn City Council Position 6.

    Larry Brown

    U.S. Navy veteran Larry Brown is the Legislative and Political Director for the Aerospace Machinists District Lodge 751. A strong advocate for workers, Brown has worked on the Governor’s Unemployment Task Force and the labor caucus for the Labor and Industries Workers Comp Advisory Committee.

  • Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO, Pro-Choice Washington, SEIU 775, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, UFCW 3000, Teamsters 117, 31st Legislative District Democrats
  • Jill Guernsey is running for re-election for Mayor of Gig Harbor. Guernsey is a former school board member and former city councilmember who has delivered results for residents during her first term as mayor. She has prioritized finding pragmatic solutions for the city's traffic problems and increasing development in the city. Guernsey has been recognized for her leadership at the local level and her ability negotiate beneficial outcomes on behalf of the residents of Gig Harbor.

    Guernsey is running against local business owner Kit Kuhn. While Kuhn has a solid vision for Gig Harbor, he lacks Guernsey's public service experience that is necessary for the job. Guernsey is the smart choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jill Guernsey

    Jill Guernsey is running for re-election for Mayor of Gig Harbor. Guernsey is a former school board member and former city councilmember who has delivered results for residents during her first term as mayor.

    Jill Guernsey is running for re-election for Mayor of Gig Harbor. Guernsey is a former school board member and former city councilmember who has delivered results for residents during her first term as mayor. She has prioritized finding pragmatic solutions for the city's traffic problems and increasing development in the city. Guernsey has been recognized for her leadership at the local level and her ability negotiate beneficial outcomes on behalf of the residents of Gig Harbor.

    Guernsey is running against local business owner Kit Kuhn. While Kuhn has a solid vision for Gig Harbor, he lacks Guernsey's public service experience that is necessary for the job. Guernsey is the smart choice in this race.

    Jill Guernsey

    Jill Guernsey is running for re-election for Mayor of Gig Harbor. Guernsey is a former school board member and former city councilmember who has delivered results for residents during her first term as mayor.

  • Incumbent Heather Shadko is serving her first term on the Puyallup City Council. She is a contracts manager for the Port of Tacoma, and has served as Chair of the Puyallup Library Board, and a member and vice-chair of the Planning Commission. Shadko's time on the council has been positive - fighting for humane treatment of the homeless, supporting Puyallup as Washington's second pollinator-friendly "Bee City," and advocating for public open space.

    She is running against Cynthia Jacobsen, a math teacher at Pierce College. A fiscal conservative, her main campaign goals are mitigating population growth issues, fiscal responsibility, and working with charities and regional governments to address homelessness.

    Shadko is the experienced, progressive pick for this position.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Heather Shadko

    Incumbent Heather Shadko is serving her first term on the Puyallup City Council. She is a contracts manager for the Port of Tacoma, and has served as Chair of the Puyallup Library Board, and a member and vice-chair of the Planning Commission.

    Incumbent Heather Shadko is serving her first term on the Puyallup City Council. She is a contracts manager for the Port of Tacoma, and has served as Chair of the Puyallup Library Board, and a member and vice-chair of the Planning Commission. Shadko's time on the council has been positive - fighting for humane treatment of the homeless, supporting Puyallup as Washington's second pollinator-friendly "Bee City," and advocating for public open space.

    She is running against Cynthia Jacobsen, a math teacher at Pierce College. A fiscal conservative, her main campaign goals are mitigating population growth issues, fiscal responsibility, and working with charities and regional governments to address homelessness.

    Shadko is the experienced, progressive pick for this position.

    Heather Shadko

    Incumbent Heather Shadko is serving her first term on the Puyallup City Council. She is a contracts manager for the Port of Tacoma, and has served as Chair of the Puyallup Library Board, and a member and vice-chair of the Planning Commission.

  • Julie Door is running for reelection to the Puyallup City Council District 3, Position 2 seat. Door was first elected to the city council in 2013. Since then, she has made strengthening the economy on behalf of working families one of her main priorities. On the council, Door supported the purchase of the Van Lierop farm to create a new park, implemented a Safe Routes to Schools initiative, and has worked on securing adequate shelter for the homeless in inclement weather. Door works with the Pierce County Opioid Task Force. She is the community services chair of the Puyallup Kiwanis Club and a board member of the South Sound 911 Board, among other community involvement.

    Her opponent, Jeremy Hamel, is a DJ whose campaign focuses on curbing non-local development buyers and mitigating traffic issues. He has no political or community organization experience. Door is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Julie Door

    Julie Door is running for reelection to the Puyallup City Council District 3, Position 2 seat. Door was first elected to the city council in 2013. Since then, she has made strengthening the economy on behalf of working families one of her main priorities.

    Julie Door is running for reelection to the Puyallup City Council District 3, Position 2 seat. Door was first elected to the city council in 2013. Since then, she has made strengthening the economy on behalf of working families one of her main priorities. On the council, Door supported the purchase of the Van Lierop farm to create a new park, implemented a Safe Routes to Schools initiative, and has worked on securing adequate shelter for the homeless in inclement weather. Door works with the Pierce County Opioid Task Force. She is the community services chair of the Puyallup Kiwanis Club and a board member of the South Sound 911 Board, among other community involvement.

    Her opponent, Jeremy Hamel, is a DJ whose campaign focuses on curbing non-local development buyers and mitigating traffic issues. He has no political or community organization experience. Door is the best choice in this race.

    Julie Door

    Julie Door is running for reelection to the Puyallup City Council District 3, Position 2 seat. Door was first elected to the city council in 2013. Since then, she has made strengthening the economy on behalf of working families one of her main priorities.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, Pierce County Central Labor Council, Washington Education Association
  • Victoria Woodards was a member of the Tacoma City Council for 7 years and resigned her seat to run for mayor late last year. She is a U.S. army veteran and president of the Tacoma Urban League, an organization that supports the local African American community. She is focused on building responsible budgets, supporting local businesses, and creating a lasting solution to the homelessness and mental health crisis. Woodards wants to increase funding for public safety and bring more living-wage jobs to Tacoma while prioritizing affordability for current residents.

    Woodards is running against progressive Jim Merritt, who lost to Mayor Strickland in a previous run in 2009. Merritt is an architect and board member of the Northend Neighborhood Council. He has advocated for sustainability initiatives for the city like implementing the use of geothermal energy and wants to improve transit in Tacoma.

    Woodards is the best choice in this race because of her experience, knowledge of policy issues, and her broader support from our progressive partner organizations.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Victoria Woodards

    Victoria Woodards was a member of the Tacoma City Council for 7 years and resigned her seat to run for mayor late last year. She is a U.S. army veteran and president of the Tacoma Urban League, an organization that supports the local African American community.

    Victoria Woodards was a member of the Tacoma City Council for 7 years and resigned her seat to run for mayor late last year. She is a U.S. army veteran and president of the Tacoma Urban League, an organization that supports the local African American community. She is focused on building responsible budgets, supporting local businesses, and creating a lasting solution to the homelessness and mental health crisis. Woodards wants to increase funding for public safety and bring more living-wage jobs to Tacoma while prioritizing affordability for current residents.

    Woodards is running against progressive Jim Merritt, who lost to Mayor Strickland in a previous run in 2009. Merritt is an architect and board member of the Northend Neighborhood Council. He has advocated for sustainability initiatives for the city like implementing the use of geothermal energy and wants to improve transit in Tacoma.

    Woodards is the best choice in this race because of her experience, knowledge of policy issues, and her broader support from our progressive partner organizations.

    Victoria Woodards

    Victoria Woodards was a member of the Tacoma City Council for 7 years and resigned her seat to run for mayor late last year. She is a U.S. army veteran and president of the Tacoma Urban League, an organization that supports the local African American community.

  • Lillian Hunter is a teacher at Lincoln High School who has garnered support from both sides of the aisle. Her family immigrated to Tacoma from Denmark. Hunter has served two terms on the local library board and was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Trustee for Bates Technical College. If elected, she would focus on collaborative efforts to reduce homelessness, community policing and liaison programs, job training services, and equitable infrastructure development that protects the environment.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lillian Hunter

    Lillian Hunter is a teacher at Lincoln High School who has garnered support from both sides of the aisle. Her family immigrated to Tacoma from Denmark. Hunter has served two terms on the local library board and was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Trustee for Bates Technical College.

    Lillian Hunter is a teacher at Lincoln High School who has garnered support from both sides of the aisle. Her family immigrated to Tacoma from Denmark. Hunter has served two terms on the local library board and was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Trustee for Bates Technical College. If elected, she would focus on collaborative efforts to reduce homelessness, community policing and liaison programs, job training services, and equitable infrastructure development that protects the environment.

    Lillian Hunter

    Lillian Hunter is a teacher at Lincoln High School who has garnered support from both sides of the aisle. Her family immigrated to Tacoma from Denmark. Hunter has served two terms on the local library board and was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Trustee for Bates Technical College.

  • Endorsed By: Pro-Choice Washington, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, Pierce County Central Labor Council, Tacoma Firefighters Union, Black Collective, Washington Education Association - Tacoma
  • Meredith Neal is running for Tacoma City Council Position 6. She has served on the YWCA Pierce County Board, the City of Tacoma Planning Commission, and the Forterra Regional Leadership Council. Neal is prioritizing both revitalization of the local economy and the environment. She is focused on increasing living wage job opportunities, incentivizing affordable housing development, upgrading Tacoma's stormwater infrastructure to protect the Puget Sound, and increasing the tree canopy.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Meredith Neal

    Meredith Neal is running for Tacoma City Council Position 6. She has served on the YWCA Pierce County Board, the City of Tacoma Planning Commission, and the Forterra Regional Leadership Council. Neal is prioritizing both revitalization of the local economy and the environment.

    Meredith Neal is running for Tacoma City Council Position 6. She has served on the YWCA Pierce County Board, the City of Tacoma Planning Commission, and the Forterra Regional Leadership Council. Neal is prioritizing both revitalization of the local economy and the environment. She is focused on increasing living wage job opportunities, incentivizing affordable housing development, upgrading Tacoma's stormwater infrastructure to protect the Puget Sound, and increasing the tree canopy.

    Meredith Neal

    Meredith Neal is running for Tacoma City Council Position 6. She has served on the YWCA Pierce County Board, the City of Tacoma Planning Commission, and the Forterra Regional Leadership Council. Neal is prioritizing both revitalization of the local economy and the environment.

  • Community leader Philip Cowan is running for Tacoma City Council Position 2. Cowan has worked as the Executive Director of Tacoma's Grand Cinema for more than ten years and is running to make Tacoma a healthier place to live for all residents. He believes that it is necessary to address Tacoma's long history of environmental problems and prioritizes environmentally sustainable solutions regarding future development. Cowan is focused on strengthening workers' rights in the local economy and ensuring that Tacoma remains a great to place to live for residents of all income levels.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Philip Cowan

    Community leader Philip Cowan is running for Tacoma City Council Position 2. Cowan has worked as the Executive Director of Tacoma's Grand Cinema for more than ten years and is running to make Tacoma a healthier place to live for all residents.

    Community leader Philip Cowan is running for Tacoma City Council Position 2. Cowan has worked as the Executive Director of Tacoma's Grand Cinema for more than ten years and is running to make Tacoma a healthier place to live for all residents. He believes that it is necessary to address Tacoma's long history of environmental problems and prioritizes environmentally sustainable solutions regarding future development. Cowan is focused on strengthening workers' rights in the local economy and ensuring that Tacoma remains a great to place to live for residents of all income levels.

    Philip Cowan

    Community leader Philip Cowan is running for Tacoma City Council Position 2. Cowan has worked as the Executive Director of Tacoma's Grand Cinema for more than ten years and is running to make Tacoma a healthier place to live for all residents.

  • Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, Sierra Club, Washington Bikes, Washington Conservation Action, Tacoma Education Association, Teamsters Local 117
  • Deputy Mayor Robert Thoms is running for reelection to Tacoma City Council Position 2. Thoms has an extensive twenty year public service record including several years as a Naval Commander and staffer in Senator Maria Cantwell's office. Since Robert Thoms was first elected to the City Council, he has demonstrated a commitment to policies that improve transportation infrastructure and reinvest in the local community. However, Thoms has been on the wrong side of some issues related to the environment, particularly when it comes to fossil fuel projects in the Tideflats area.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Robert Thoms

    Deputy Mayor Robert Thoms is running for reelection to Tacoma City Council Position 2. Thoms has an extensive twenty year public service record including several years as a Naval Commander and staffer in Senator Maria Cantwell's office.

    Deputy Mayor Robert Thoms is running for reelection to Tacoma City Council Position 2. Thoms has an extensive twenty year public service record including several years as a Naval Commander and staffer in Senator Maria Cantwell's office. Since Robert Thoms was first elected to the City Council, he has demonstrated a commitment to policies that improve transportation infrastructure and reinvest in the local community. However, Thoms has been on the wrong side of some issues related to the environment, particularly when it comes to fossil fuel projects in the Tideflats area.

    Robert Thoms

    Deputy Mayor Robert Thoms is running for reelection to Tacoma City Council Position 2. Thoms has an extensive twenty year public service record including several years as a Naval Commander and staffer in Senator Maria Cantwell's office.

  • Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28, Washington Bikes, Tacoma Professional Firefighters Local 31
  • Catherine Ushka is the president of the Tacoma School Board and is running for the Tacoma City Council District 4 seat. Ushka has served in the U.S. Navy, and as Vice President of the Tacoma Charter Review, Commissioner for the City of Tacoma Human Services Commission, and on the Executive Team and Steering Committee for the Eastside Community Center. Her campaign is focused on public safety, housing, and sustainable career paths. She advocated against State Initiative 1515, which would repeal non-discrimination protections for transgender people in housing, employment, and schools.

    Her opponent, real estate developer Kevin Grossman, is a former Shoreline City Councilmember and former Vice Chair of the Washington State Affordable Housing Advisory Board. His longtime work in affordable housing has put increasing housing density, neighborhood involvement, and supporting small business at the center of his campaign.

    Because of her greater support from local progressive organizations, Ushka is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Catherine Ushka

    Catherine Ushka is the president of the Tacoma School Board and is running for the Tacoma City Council District 4 seat. Ushka has served in the U.S.

    Catherine Ushka is the president of the Tacoma School Board and is running for the Tacoma City Council District 4 seat. Ushka has served in the U.S. Navy, and as Vice President of the Tacoma Charter Review, Commissioner for the City of Tacoma Human Services Commission, and on the Executive Team and Steering Committee for the Eastside Community Center. Her campaign is focused on public safety, housing, and sustainable career paths. She advocated against State Initiative 1515, which would repeal non-discrimination protections for transgender people in housing, employment, and schools.

    Her opponent, real estate developer Kevin Grossman, is a former Shoreline City Councilmember and former Vice Chair of the Washington State Affordable Housing Advisory Board. His longtime work in affordable housing has put increasing housing density, neighborhood involvement, and supporting small business at the center of his campaign.

    Because of her greater support from local progressive organizations, Ushka is the best choice in this race.

    Catherine Ushka

    Catherine Ushka is the president of the Tacoma School Board and is running for the Tacoma City Council District 4 seat. Ushka has served in the U.S.

  • Community leader Chris Beale is running for Tacoma City Council Position 5. Beale is Chair of the Planning Commission and has also served as Vice Chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council, as a member of Pierce County Transit’s Citizen Advisory Council, and as Board President of the local non-profit ForeverGreen Trails. Beale is advocating for more affordable housing, storm water quality maintenance, support for Safe Routes to Schools, the Neighborhood Councils, and equitable road improvements. He aims to give specific attention to South Tacoma to "address historic inequality of public investments."

    Beale is running against Brian Arnold, a conservative insurance company owner and board member of the South Tacoma Business District. Arnold's campaign is focused on increased policing and community safety. Beale is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Beale

    Community leader Chris Beale is running for Tacoma City Council Position 5.

    Community leader Chris Beale is running for Tacoma City Council Position 5. Beale is Chair of the Planning Commission and has also served as Vice Chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council, as a member of Pierce County Transit’s Citizen Advisory Council, and as Board President of the local non-profit ForeverGreen Trails. Beale is advocating for more affordable housing, storm water quality maintenance, support for Safe Routes to Schools, the Neighborhood Councils, and equitable road improvements. He aims to give specific attention to South Tacoma to "address historic inequality of public investments."

    Beale is running against Brian Arnold, a conservative insurance company owner and board member of the South Tacoma Business District. Arnold's campaign is focused on increased policing and community safety. Beale is the best choice in this race.

    Chris Beale

    Community leader Chris Beale is running for Tacoma City Council Position 5.

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

  • Marisa Peloquin is running for University Place School Board Director, Position #2. A retired colonel in the U.S. army and a parent of two children, Peloquin understands the value of a quality education. She is running to ensure that the children of working families are supported academically and have access to the resources they need to build a bright future. She is a local community leader and an outspoken advocate for inclusive communities, safe neighborhoods, and social equality.

    Marisa Peloquin is running against Nate Angelo, who has not released a detailed platform that explains his vision for University Place schools. Peloquin is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Marisa Peloquin

    Marisa Peloquin is running for University Place School Board Director, Position #2. A retired colonel in the U.S. army and a parent of two children, Peloquin understands the value of a quality education.

    Marisa Peloquin is running for University Place School Board Director, Position #2. A retired colonel in the U.S. army and a parent of two children, Peloquin understands the value of a quality education. She is running to ensure that the children of working families are supported academically and have access to the resources they need to build a bright future. She is a local community leader and an outspoken advocate for inclusive communities, safe neighborhoods, and social equality.

    Marisa Peloquin is running against Nate Angelo, who has not released a detailed platform that explains his vision for University Place schools. Peloquin is the best choice in this race.

    Marisa Peloquin

    Marisa Peloquin is running for University Place School Board Director, Position #2. A retired colonel in the U.S. army and a parent of two children, Peloquin understands the value of a quality education.

  • Endorsed By: Pierce County Young Democrats