Progressive Voters Guide Powered by Fuse WA
Claus Joens photo
Democrat

Claus Joens

Website Facebook Endorsements

Moderate Democrat Claus Joens is running for the 39th Legislative District Senate seat. Joens is an educational instructor, an advocate for children, and a local precinct committee officer. Joens is prioritizing the restoration of salmon fisheries and Skagit County water rights. He is also focused on protecting consumers from high-interest rates and believes that wasteful tax loopholes should be closed before raising taxes on working families.

Joens faces an uphill race against incumbent Republican Senator Keith Wagoner, who has been an obstacle to progress throughout his tenure in the Legislature. Sen. Wagoner routinely votes against commonsense legislation that supports working families,.

Though we don't agree fully with Claus Joens's political positions, he is the better choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Moderate Democrat Claus Joens is running for the 39th Legislative District Senate seat. Joens is an educational instructor, an advocate for children, and a local precinct committee officer. Joens is prioritizing the restoration of salmon fisheries and Skagit County water rights. He is also focused on protecting consumers from high-interest rates and believes that wasteful tax loopholes should be closed before raising taxes on working families.

Joens faces an uphill race against incumbent Republican Senator Keith Wagoner, who has been an obstacle to progress throughout his tenure in the Legislature. Sen. Wagoner routinely votes against commonsense legislation that supports working families,.

Though we don't agree fully with Claus Joens's political positions, he is the better choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

39th Legislative District

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Election Day November 6, 2018
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Statewide Ballot Measures

Initiative #1631

VOTE YES

Vote YES for Jobs and Clean Energy

Website Facebook Endorsements

Initiative 1631 is our best opportunity to accelerate clean energy solutions and build healthier communities for everyone in Washington.

This initiative will charge our state’s largest corporate polluters a fee that will be used to create local jobs by investing in clean energy, healthy forests, and clean water. I-1631 is essential to pass a clean and healthy Washington on to future generations. It will create 40,000 jobs by investing in water and forestry projects, energy efficiency, and clean transportation. These investments are a practical first step to ensure clean air and clean water for everyone in Washington. These will look different in every community, from energy efficiency upgrades for our homes and businesses to keeping our forests healthy so they clean our air and investing in cleaner transportation options for more communities.

The oil industry is spending tens of millions of dollars to confuse voters about I-1631 so they can continue polluting for free and raking in record profits. We can't wait any longer to act. Vote YES on I-1631.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Initiative 1631 is our best opportunity to accelerate clean energy solutions and build healthier communities for everyone in Washington.

This initiative will charge our state’s largest corporate polluters a fee that will be used to create local jobs by investing in clean energy, healthy forests, and clean water. I-1631 is essential to pass a clean and healthy Washington on to future generations. It will create 40,000 jobs by investing in water and forestry projects, energy efficiency, and clean transportation. These investments are a practical first step to ensure clean air and clean water for everyone in Washington. These will look different in every community, from energy efficiency upgrades for our homes and businesses to keeping our forests healthy so they clean our air and investing in cleaner transportation options for more communities.

The oil industry is spending tens of millions of dollars to confuse voters about I-1631 so they can continue polluting for free and raking in record profits. We can't wait any longer to act. Vote YES on I-1631.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Initiative #1634

VOTE NO

Vote NO on I-1634

Website Facebook Endorsements

Initiative 1634 would prevent cities and counties in Washington from passing new taxes on sugary beverages. Such taxes are aimed at discouraging people from buying sweetened drinks that have been linked to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and tooth decay.

I-1634 is backed primarily by millions of dollars from a handful of big soda companies. It also has support from some labor unions that represent workers whose jobs could be impacted by soda taxes. The campaign’s highly deceptive ads focus on grocery taxes despite the fact that groceries have been exempt from sales taxes since 1977.

Progressive advocates oppose efforts like this to use state laws to prevent localities from taking action that’s right for their communities. In recent years, Republican legislators have sought to use similar legislation to reverse Seattle’s $15 minimum wage and progressive paid sick leave laws in Tacoma and Spokane.

We’re sympathetic to the concerns of union workers in the beverage industry and we agree that our tax system is upside-down and disproportionately hurts low-income families. However, we don’t think that preempting local legislation that taxes sugary drinks is the way to fix it.

Don’t be fooled by Big Soda’s misleading ads. Vote NO on I-1634.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Initiative 1634 would prevent cities and counties in Washington from passing new taxes on sugary beverages. Such taxes are aimed at discouraging people from buying sweetened drinks that have been linked to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and tooth decay.

I-1634 is backed primarily by millions of dollars from a handful of big soda companies. It also has support from some labor unions that represent workers whose jobs could be impacted by soda taxes. The campaign’s highly deceptive ads focus on grocery taxes despite the fact that groceries have been exempt from sales taxes since 1977.

Progressive advocates oppose efforts like this to use state laws to prevent localities from taking action that’s right for their communities. In recent years, Republican legislators have sought to use similar legislation to reverse Seattle’s $15 minimum wage and progressive paid sick leave laws in Tacoma and Spokane.

We’re sympathetic to the concerns of union workers in the beverage industry and we agree that our tax system is upside-down and disproportionately hurts low-income families. However, we don’t think that preempting local legislation that taxes sugary drinks is the way to fix it.

Don’t be fooled by Big Soda’s misleading ads. Vote NO on I-1634.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Opposed By The Stranger , WA Federation of State Employees, Council 28 , American Heart Association, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Children’s Alliance, El Centro de La Raza

Initiative #1639

VOTE YES

Vote YES to Reduce Gun Violence

Website Facebook Endorsements

Initiative 1639 is the most comprehensive gun violence prevention measure put forward in Washington state history. It's a commonsense initiative that will reduce gun violence and keep our schools and communities safe. I-1639 would raise the age to purchase semi-automatic assault rifles from 18 to 21 and require enhanced background checks and safety training for purchasing these particularly lethal weapons. It will also incentivize secure storage of all firearms by holding gun owners accountable if a child or other legally prohibited person uses their weapon to harm themselves or someone else.

Someone is killed with a gun in Washington state every 14 hours and more than 200,000 students have experienced gun violence at school since Columbine. Unfortunately, the gun lobby has prevented our elected officials from acting to prevent it, so we'll do it ourselves. Vote YES on I-1639 to keep our schools and communities safe.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Initiative 1639 is the most comprehensive gun violence prevention measure put forward in Washington state history. It's a commonsense initiative that will reduce gun violence and keep our schools and communities safe. I-1639 would raise the age to purchase semi-automatic assault rifles from 18 to 21 and require enhanced background checks and safety training for purchasing these particularly lethal weapons. It will also incentivize secure storage of all firearms by holding gun owners accountable if a child or other legally prohibited person uses their weapon to harm themselves or someone else.

Someone is killed with a gun in Washington state every 14 hours and more than 200,000 students have experienced gun violence at school since Columbine. Unfortunately, the gun lobby has prevented our elected officials from acting to prevent it, so we'll do it ourselves. Vote YES on I-1639 to keep our schools and communities safe.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Initiative #940

VOTE YES

Vote YES for Police Accountability

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Last year, more people in Washington were killed in encounters with law enforcement than in 45 other states, and almost one-third of them were experiencing a mental health crisis. Initiative 940 would improve de-escalation, first aid, and mental health crisis training for law enforcement and help save lives.

Currently, officers are only required to receive eight hours of "crisis intervention training." Initiative 940 would ensure that every officer receives extensive training and continuing education in de-escalating potential confrontations. The primary goal is preventing tragedies in the first place, but when a tragedy does occur Initiative 940 would also create a fair and independent investigation process and bring our use of force standard in line with 27 other states.

Vote YES on Initiative 940 to improve training for law enforcement and help save lives.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Last year, more people in Washington were killed in encounters with law enforcement than in 45 other states, and almost one-third of them were experiencing a mental health crisis. Initiative 940 would improve de-escalation, first aid, and mental health crisis training for law enforcement and help save lives.

Currently, officers are only required to receive eight hours of "crisis intervention training." Initiative 940 would ensure that every officer receives extensive training and continuing education in de-escalating potential confrontations. The primary goal is preventing tragedies in the first place, but when a tragedy does occur Initiative 940 would also create a fair and independent investigation process and bring our use of force standard in line with 27 other states.

Vote YES on Initiative 940 to improve training for law enforcement and help save lives.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Advisory Vote #19

VOTE MAINTAINED

Maintain Funding for Oil Spill Prevention

A bipartisan group of legislators passed Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 6269 to fund oil spill prevention and cleanup. The legislation directs the Department of Ecology to improve prevention for oil spills in Puget Sound, as well as around oil refineries, railroads, and pipelines. This bill was funded by a $0.05 tax per 42-gallon barrel of oil used by boats and marine terminals.

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 19.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

A bipartisan group of legislators passed Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 6269 to fund oil spill prevention and cleanup. The legislation directs the Department of Ecology to improve prevention for oil spills in Puget Sound, as well as around oil refineries, railroads, and pipelines. This bill was funded by a $0.05 tax per 42-gallon barrel of oil used by boats and marine terminals.

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 19.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By The Stranger

Snohomish County Ballot Measures

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

Snohomish County Proposition #1

VOTE APPROVED

Vote YES to Modernize Emergency Services

The Snohomish County Council has put forth Proposition No. 1 to replace the outdated 20-year-old emergency radio system used by first responders. When natural disasters such as wildfires and landslides take place; firefighters, EMTs, and police depend on a functioning radio system to communicate and save lives. The sales tax increase would fund a modern, $70 million emergency radio system and would cost a consumer $.01 on a $10 purchase beginning in April of 2019. Approve Proposition No. 1 to modernize Snohomish County's 911 system!

Last updated: 2023-04-05

The Snohomish County Council has put forth Proposition No. 1 to replace the outdated 20-year-old emergency radio system used by first responders. When natural disasters such as wildfires and landslides take place; firefighters, EMTs, and police depend on a functioning radio system to communicate and save lives. The sales tax increase would fund a modern, $70 million emergency radio system and would cost a consumer $.01 on a $10 purchase beginning in April of 2019. Approve Proposition No. 1 to modernize Snohomish County's 911 system!

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Federal

U.S. Senator

Maria Cantwell photo
Democrat

Maria Cantwell

Website Facebook

Senator Maria Cantwell was first elected in 2000 and continues to represent our state's progressive values in our nation's capital. Sen. Cantwell has been a leader on a wide range of issues including reproductive rights, supporting the Children's Health Insurance Program, defending net neutrality, passing oil spill legislation to protect our water, working on clean energy policies, and many more.

Sen. Cantwell is opposed by Republican Susan Hutchison. Hutchison is a former news anchor and past chair of the state Republican Party. She ran for King County Executive in 2009 and lost by twenty points. Hutchison is well-known for being a party-line Republican and for her fierce defense of President Donald Trump, including calling fellow Republican Ted Cruz a "traitor" for not supporting the president's campaign.

Sen. Cantwell has been a tenacious advocate for the people of Washington state and is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Senator Maria Cantwell was first elected in 2000 and continues to represent our state's progressive values in our nation's capital. Sen. Cantwell has been a leader on a wide range of issues including reproductive rights, supporting the Children's Health Insurance Program, defending net neutrality, passing oil spill legislation to protect our water, working on clean energy policies, and many more.

Sen. Cantwell is opposed by Republican Susan Hutchison. Hutchison is a former news anchor and past chair of the state Republican Party. She ran for King County Executive in 2009 and lost by twenty points. Hutchison is well-known for being a party-line Republican and for her fierce defense of President Donald Trump, including calling fellow Republican Ted Cruz a "traitor" for not supporting the president's campaign.

Sen. Cantwell has been a tenacious advocate for the people of Washington state and is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Congress

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

1st Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Suzan DelBene photo
Democrat

Suzan DelBene

Website Facebook Endorsements

Representative Suzan DelBene has served the 1st Congressional District since 2013. DelBene is a former executive at Microsoft who has used her technology background to become a leader in protecting privacy rights against government surveillance. Her priorities include creating family wage jobs in the aerospace, sustainable agriculture, and clean energy industries. She also supports raising the federal minimum wage and passing comprehensive tax reform to ensure that those making more than a million dollars a year don't pay a lower tax rate than low and middle-income families.

Rep. DelBene is running against Republican Jeffrey Beeler. Beeler is a Sultan city councilmember focused on "securing our borders," health care, and the deficit. However, he lacks Rep. DelBene's knowledge and experience with the important policies that impact working families in the 1st District.

Rep. DelBene is clearly the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Representative Suzan DelBene has served the 1st Congressional District since 2013. DelBene is a former executive at Microsoft who has used her technology background to become a leader in protecting privacy rights against government surveillance. Her priorities include creating family wage jobs in the aerospace, sustainable agriculture, and clean energy industries. She also supports raising the federal minimum wage and passing comprehensive tax reform to ensure that those making more than a million dollars a year don't pay a lower tax rate than low and middle-income families.

Rep. DelBene is running against Republican Jeffrey Beeler. Beeler is a Sultan city councilmember focused on "securing our borders," health care, and the deficit. However, he lacks Rep. DelBene's knowledge and experience with the important policies that impact working families in the 1st District.

Rep. DelBene is clearly the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

2nd Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Rick Larsen photo
Democrat

Rick Larsen

Website Facebook Endorsements

Representative Rick Larsen is a moderate Democrat who has been a strong advocate for jobs, transportation, and infrastructure projects in the 2nd District. Before his time in Congress, he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett. Rep. Larsen has also supported efforts to protect voting rights, fought to reform student loans, and championed Wall Street reform. Unfortunately, Larsen joined Republicans to repeal some banking rules imposed after the Great Recession intended to prevent another economic collapse.

Rep. Larsen is running against Libertarian Brian Luke, who has worked in the grocery business for 22 years. His campaign is focused on reducing the national debt and cutting regulations.

Rep. Larsen is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Representative Rick Larsen is a moderate Democrat who has been a strong advocate for jobs, transportation, and infrastructure projects in the 2nd District. Before his time in Congress, he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett. Rep. Larsen has also supported efforts to protect voting rights, fought to reform student loans, and championed Wall Street reform. Unfortunately, Larsen joined Republicans to repeal some banking rules imposed after the Great Recession intended to prevent another economic collapse.

Rep. Larsen is running against Libertarian Brian Luke, who has worked in the grocery business for 22 years. His campaign is focused on reducing the national debt and cutting regulations.

Rep. Larsen is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

8th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Dr. Kim Schrier photo
Democrat

Dr. Kim Schrier

Website Facebook Endorsements

Dr. Kim Schrier is a pediatrician who was inspired to run for Washington’s 8th Congressional District because of Republican efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. She is committed to building an economy that works for everyone and protecting Social Security and Medicare for all. She also wants to bring her voice to the debates about women’s health care and abortion rights in Congress, where there are currently no women doctors. Dr. Schrier supports letting Americans of any age buy into Medicare on a sliding scale to reduce overhead costs and increase competition for private insurers.

Dr. Schrier is running against Republican Dino Rossi, who previously ran unsuccessful campaigns for governor and U.S. Senate. Rossi has consistently sided with congressional Republicans, including supporting the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy few. He is also strongly anti-choice and does not support commonsense gun safety legislation. While in the state Legislature, he wrote a budget that would have taken away health care from 45,000 low-income kids. Rossi would be another reliable vote for the Republican leaders and powerful special interests in Washington, D.C.

We need new leadership in Congress that puts working families before corporations and the wealthy elites who rig the rules. Dr. Kim Schrier is the best choice for Washington's 8th Congressional District.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Dr. Kim Schrier is a pediatrician who was inspired to run for Washington’s 8th Congressional District because of Republican efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. She is committed to building an economy that works for everyone and protecting Social Security and Medicare for all. She also wants to bring her voice to the debates about women’s health care and abortion rights in Congress, where there are currently no women doctors. Dr. Schrier supports letting Americans of any age buy into Medicare on a sliding scale to reduce overhead costs and increase competition for private insurers.

Dr. Schrier is running against Republican Dino Rossi, who previously ran unsuccessful campaigns for governor and U.S. Senate. Rossi has consistently sided with congressional Republicans, including supporting the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy few. He is also strongly anti-choice and does not support commonsense gun safety legislation. While in the state Legislature, he wrote a budget that would have taken away health care from 45,000 low-income kids. Rossi would be another reliable vote for the Republican leaders and powerful special interests in Washington, D.C.

We need new leadership in Congress that puts working families before corporations and the wealthy elites who rig the rules. Dr. Kim Schrier is the best choice for Washington's 8th Congressional District.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

39th Legislative District

State Senator

Claus Joens photo
Democrat

Claus Joens

Website Facebook Endorsements

Moderate Democrat Claus Joens is running for the 39th Legislative District Senate seat. Joens is an educational instructor, an advocate for children, and a local precinct committee officer. Joens is prioritizing the restoration of salmon fisheries and Skagit County water rights. He is also focused on protecting consumers from high-interest rates and believes that wasteful tax loopholes should be closed before raising taxes on working families.

Joens faces an uphill race against incumbent Republican Senator Keith Wagoner, who has been an obstacle to progress throughout his tenure in the Legislature. Sen. Wagoner routinely votes against commonsense legislation that supports working families,.

Though we don't agree fully with Claus Joens's political positions, he is the better choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Moderate Democrat Claus Joens is running for the 39th Legislative District Senate seat. Joens is an educational instructor, an advocate for children, and a local precinct committee officer. Joens is prioritizing the restoration of salmon fisheries and Skagit County water rights. He is also focused on protecting consumers from high-interest rates and believes that wasteful tax loopholes should be closed before raising taxes on working families.

Joens faces an uphill race against incumbent Republican Senator Keith Wagoner, who has been an obstacle to progress throughout his tenure in the Legislature. Sen. Wagoner routinely votes against commonsense legislation that supports working families,.

Though we don't agree fully with Claus Joens's political positions, he is the better choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Representative, Position #1

Ivan Lewis photo
Democrat

Ivan Lewis

Website Facebook Endorsements

Democrat Ivan Lewis is running for the 39th Legislative District House Position 1. Lewis co-owns a math and reading tutoring center in Snohomish County and has previously served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. He is focused on supporting living wage jobs and wants to increase investment in local infrastructure to help families and businesses across the region. Lewis is also supportive of health care reform, reducing gun violence, fighting climate change, supporting labor unions, and improving education.

Lewis is running a competitive race against Robert Sutherland, a veteran whose platform centers on supporting the 2nd Amendment and charter schools, and reducing property taxes.

Lewis is the best choice for the 39th Legislative District House Position 1.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat Ivan Lewis is running for the 39th Legislative District House Position 1. Lewis co-owns a math and reading tutoring center in Snohomish County and has previously served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. He is focused on supporting living wage jobs and wants to increase investment in local infrastructure to help families and businesses across the region. Lewis is also supportive of health care reform, reducing gun violence, fighting climate change, supporting labor unions, and improving education.

Lewis is running a competitive race against Robert Sutherland, a veteran whose platform centers on supporting the 2nd Amendment and charter schools, and reducing property taxes.

Lewis is the best choice for the 39th Legislative District House Position 1.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Equal Rights Washington , Pro-Choice Washington , Our Vote Counts , SEIU Local 6 , Sierra Club , Washington State Labor Council , Snohomish County Democrats, Skagit County Democrats

State Representative, Position #2

Eric Halvorson photo
Democrat

Eric Halvorson

Website Facebook

Moderate Democrat Eric Halvorson is a tax accountant who runs an animal rescue farm from his home. His campaign supports reproductive health care, the Second Amendment, and not instituting a state income tax. Halvorson wants bipartisan solutions that will help protect farmland and the district's natural resources. He is prioritizing roads, access to higher education, apprenticeships, and job training programs.

Halvorson is running a competitive race against former Sultan Mayor Carolyn Eslick, who was appointed to the House in 2017 after Rep. John Koster resigned. She has a standard Republican economic platform which favors the wealthy few, resists all taxes, and opposes fixing the state's regressive tax code. Rep. Eslick also voted against this year's health care bills that expanded access to contraception.

While Halvorson is a moderate on most issues, we expect that he would have a better voting record than Rep. Eslick in the state House. Halvorson deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Moderate Democrat Eric Halvorson is a tax accountant who runs an animal rescue farm from his home. His campaign supports reproductive health care, the Second Amendment, and not instituting a state income tax. Halvorson wants bipartisan solutions that will help protect farmland and the district's natural resources. He is prioritizing roads, access to higher education, apprenticeships, and job training programs.

Halvorson is running a competitive race against former Sultan Mayor Carolyn Eslick, who was appointed to the House in 2017 after Rep. John Koster resigned. She has a standard Republican economic platform which favors the wealthy few, resists all taxes, and opposes fixing the state's regressive tax code. Rep. Eslick also voted against this year's health care bills that expanded access to contraception.

While Halvorson is a moderate on most issues, we expect that he would have a better voting record than Rep. Eslick in the state House. Halvorson deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Snohomish County

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

Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney

Adam Cornell photo
Democrat

Adam Cornell

Website Facebook Endorsements

Adam Cornell has served as the Snohomish County Deputy Prosecutor for 15 years and has been endorsed by Mark Roe, the departing incumbent. His platform is centered on alternative justice programs, alternative sentences, and treatment programs for those suffering from mental illness and addiction issues. Adam Cornell is running unopposed and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Adam Cornell has served as the Snohomish County Deputy Prosecutor for 15 years and has been endorsed by Mark Roe, the departing incumbent. His platform is centered on alternative justice programs, alternative sentences, and treatment programs for those suffering from mental illness and addiction issues. Adam Cornell is running unopposed and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Snohomish County Labor Council, Snohomish County Democrats, Aerospace Machinists District Lodge 751

State Supreme Court

Justice, Position #2

Susan Owens photo

Susan Owens

Website

First elected in 2000, Supreme Court Justice Susan Justice Owens brings more 40 years of legal experience to Washington's Supreme Court. Prior to serving on the court, Justice Owens served nineteen years as a District Court Judge in Western Clallam County. Justice Owens has been a leader in the judicial community on addressing the impacts of domestic violence on children. Nationally, Justice Owens is a judicial trainer on this topic and participated in the writing of the Northwest Tribal Judges Domestic Violence Manual. Justice Owens is running unopposed for re-election and has earned your support.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

First elected in 2000, Supreme Court Justice Susan Justice Owens brings more 40 years of legal experience to Washington's Supreme Court. Prior to serving on the court, Justice Owens served nineteen years as a District Court Judge in Western Clallam County. Justice Owens has been a leader in the judicial community on addressing the impacts of domestic violence on children. Nationally, Justice Owens is a judicial trainer on this topic and participated in the writing of the Northwest Tribal Judges Domestic Violence Manual. Justice Owens is running unopposed for re-election and has earned your support.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Justice, Position #8

Steve Gonzalez photo

Steve Gonzalez

Website Facebook Endorsements

Supreme Court Justice Steve Gonzalez has earned national recognition for his judicial expertise and work to increase access to the judicial system. Before serving on the Supreme Court, Justice Gonzalez served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and on the King County Superior Court for more than 10 years hearing criminal, juvenile, and family law cases. Justice Gonzalez is devoted to working for the people of Washington and serves as a board member for the Washington Leadership Institute, an organization that supports emerging community leaders from diverse backgrounds. As one of the few multi-lingual justices, he chairs the Interpreter Commission. Justice Gonzalez is rated "Exceptionally Well Qualified" by 10 independent bar associations in Washington state.

Gonzalez is being challenged by Bellevue-based attorney Nathan Choi, who ran unsuccessfully for a judicial seat on the Court of Appeals in 2016. Since then, Choi has faced numerous ethical controversies. In 2017, the King County Bar Association formally reprimanded Choi for violating KCBA's fair campaign practices guidelines by releasing misleading campaign materials and failing to follow state candidate rules. In February of this year, Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson formally filed a lawsuit against Nathan Choi in a Thurston County Court. The case is still open.

Justice Steve Gonzalez is the best choice for Supreme Court Justice Position 8.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Supreme Court Justice Steve Gonzalez has earned national recognition for his judicial expertise and work to increase access to the judicial system. Before serving on the Supreme Court, Justice Gonzalez served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and on the King County Superior Court for more than 10 years hearing criminal, juvenile, and family law cases. Justice Gonzalez is devoted to working for the people of Washington and serves as a board member for the Washington Leadership Institute, an organization that supports emerging community leaders from diverse backgrounds. As one of the few multi-lingual justices, he chairs the Interpreter Commission. Justice Gonzalez is rated "Exceptionally Well Qualified" by 10 independent bar associations in Washington state.

Gonzalez is being challenged by Bellevue-based attorney Nathan Choi, who ran unsuccessfully for a judicial seat on the Court of Appeals in 2016. Since then, Choi has faced numerous ethical controversies. In 2017, the King County Bar Association formally reprimanded Choi for violating KCBA's fair campaign practices guidelines by releasing misleading campaign materials and failing to follow state candidate rules. In February of this year, Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson formally filed a lawsuit against Nathan Choi in a Thurston County Court. The case is still open.

Justice Steve Gonzalez is the best choice for Supreme Court Justice Position 8.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Justice, Position #9

Sheryl Gordon McCloud photo

Sheryl Gordon McCloud

Website Facebook Endorsements

Washington Supreme Court Justice Sheryl Gordon McCloud has been a fierce defender of constitutional rights and has written the decision in several consequential court cases. Prior to serving on the Supreme Court, she worked as an accomplished appellate court attorney for nearly three decades and was a founding member of the Washington Appellate Lawyers Association. Her strong judicial track record has earned a rating of "Exceptionally Well Qualified" by 10 independent state bar associations, including Washington Women Lawyers and the newly-minted Veterans Bar Association.

Justice McCloud in running unopposed for Position 9 and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Washington Supreme Court Justice Sheryl Gordon McCloud has been a fierce defender of constitutional rights and has written the decision in several consequential court cases. Prior to serving on the Supreme Court, she worked as an accomplished appellate court attorney for nearly three decades and was a founding member of the Washington Appellate Lawyers Association. Her strong judicial track record has earned a rating of "Exceptionally Well Qualified" by 10 independent state bar associations, including Washington Women Lawyers and the newly-minted Veterans Bar Association.

Justice McCloud in running unopposed for Position 9 and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Court of Appeals, Division One, District Three

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

Judge, Position #1

Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez photo

Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez

Website Facebook Endorsements

Public defender Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez is running for the Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 3, Judge Position 1. She possesses more than 10 years of legal experience representing low-income clients in Skagit County courtrooms and aims to administer justice fairly and impartially. Prior to joining the public defenders' office in 2010, Hazelrigg-Hernandez worked as an adjunct faculty member in American Cultural Studies at Western Washington University. As a public defender, Hazelrigg-Hernandez is assigned to the felony unit.

Hazelrigg-Hernandez is opposed by attorney Tom SeGuine, who is the wrong choice for a non-partisan judicial role. A Republican Precinct Committee Officer, SeGuine has been endorsed by Skagit Republicans and attended partisan fundraisers after announcing his candidacy, which suggests he will be a conservative judge who favors judicial activism.

We believe Hazelrigg-Hernandez is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Public defender Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez is running for the Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 3, Judge Position 1. She possesses more than 10 years of legal experience representing low-income clients in Skagit County courtrooms and aims to administer justice fairly and impartially. Prior to joining the public defenders' office in 2010, Hazelrigg-Hernandez worked as an adjunct faculty member in American Cultural Studies at Western Washington University. As a public defender, Hazelrigg-Hernandez is assigned to the felony unit.

Hazelrigg-Hernandez is opposed by attorney Tom SeGuine, who is the wrong choice for a non-partisan judicial role. A Republican Precinct Committee Officer, SeGuine has been endorsed by Skagit Republicans and attended partisan fundraisers after announcing his candidacy, which suggests he will be a conservative judge who favors judicial activism.

We believe Hazelrigg-Hernandez is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Whatcom County Democrats, Skagit County Democrats

Skagit County Superior Court

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

Superior Court Judge, Position #2

Laura Riquelme photo

Laura Riquelme

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First elected in 2016, Judge Laura Riquelme is running for re-election to the Skagit County Superior Court. Previously, she served 12 years as both a prosecutor and a senior deputy public defender. Judge Riquelme is very active in her community, serving as president of the Parent Teacher Association for her son’s school, working with the Skagit Immigrant Rights Council on issues affecting immigrants in the court system, teaching English as a a second language class with Community Action, and serving on two committees at the Superior Court Judges' Association. Judge Riquelme's judicial expertise and courtroom experience have earned her an "Exceptionally Well Qualified" rating by the Washington State Veterans Bar Association and Washington Women Lawyers.

Riquelme's opponent is Chief Criminal Deputy Prosecutor Rosemary Kaholokula of Skagit County. Kaholokula has extensive legal experience and earned support from many members of the law enforcement community. However, Kaholokula earned lower ratings from independent state law associations. Riquelme is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

First elected in 2016, Judge Laura Riquelme is running for re-election to the Skagit County Superior Court. Previously, she served 12 years as both a prosecutor and a senior deputy public defender. Judge Riquelme is very active in her community, serving as president of the Parent Teacher Association for her son’s school, working with the Skagit Immigrant Rights Council on issues affecting immigrants in the court system, teaching English as a a second language class with Community Action, and serving on two committees at the Superior Court Judges' Association. Judge Riquelme's judicial expertise and courtroom experience have earned her an "Exceptionally Well Qualified" rating by the Washington State Veterans Bar Association and Washington Women Lawyers.

Riquelme's opponent is Chief Criminal Deputy Prosecutor Rosemary Kaholokula of Skagit County. Kaholokula has extensive legal experience and earned support from many members of the law enforcement community. However, Kaholokula earned lower ratings from independent state law associations. Riquelme is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Northwest Central Labor Council, Skagit Democrats, Washington Education Association Fourth Corner, Swinomish Tribal Community

Everett City Council

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

Everett City Council, Position #4

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Liz Vogeli

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Progressive activist Liz Vogeli is focusing on affordable housing and supporting those with mental illness or addiction issues find social services. Vogeli is also seeking to attract more family wage jobs to Everett. She is a community organizer, precinct committee officer, and former ombudsman for the Coast Guard.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Progressive activist Liz Vogeli is focusing on affordable housing and supporting those with mental illness or addiction issues find social services. Vogeli is also seeking to attract more family wage jobs to Everett. She is a community organizer, precinct committee officer, and former ombudsman for the Coast Guard.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Snohomish County Democrats, Women's Political Caucus of Washington, IAM Local 751
Tyler Rourke photo

Tyler Rourke

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Tyler Rourke is a project engineer at Electroimpact in Mukilteo. He was in the running for the appointment to Position 4 last winter to fill Cassie Franklin's seat after she was elected as mayor of Everett. He is prioritizing pedestrian safety, the city's Master Bike Plan, and a law and order-oriented view when it comes to homelessness and addiction, stating that we must be compassionate but "people who choose to break the law must also be held to account."

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Tyler Rourke is a project engineer at Electroimpact in Mukilteo. He was in the running for the appointment to Position 4 last winter to fill Cassie Franklin's seat after she was elected as mayor of Everett. He is prioritizing pedestrian safety, the city's Master Bike Plan, and a law and order-oriented view when it comes to homelessness and addiction, stating that we must be compassionate but "people who choose to break the law must also be held to account."

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Everett Ballot Measures

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

Everett City Proposition #1

VOTE YES

Vote YES for Stronger Representation

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The City of Everett has introduced Proposition No. 1, a set of five proposed charter amendments that would allow the city of Everett to move to a district-based representation system. As cities like Everett continue to grow and to become more diverse, it's increasingly important to ensure fair representation at the local level. Already, more than 23 cities in Washington including Bellingham, Seattle, Spokane, and Yakima have adapted similar district-based city council structures to ensure that every community's voice is represented at the table at when decisions are being made.

If approved, Proposition No. 1 would create a process for drawing new city council district maps based on census data collected every 10 years and establish the parameters for a smooth transition to a combination of at-large and district-based representation. The transition would be completed by 2022. Vote YES on Proposition No. 1 for fair representation!

Last updated: 2023-04-05

The City of Everett has introduced Proposition No. 1, a set of five proposed charter amendments that would allow the city of Everett to move to a district-based representation system. As cities like Everett continue to grow and to become more diverse, it's increasingly important to ensure fair representation at the local level. Already, more than 23 cities in Washington including Bellingham, Seattle, Spokane, and Yakima have adapted similar district-based city council structures to ensure that every community's voice is represented at the table at when decisions are being made.

If approved, Proposition No. 1 would create a process for drawing new city council district maps based on census data collected every 10 years and establish the parameters for a smooth transition to a combination of at-large and district-based representation. The transition would be completed by 2022. Vote YES on Proposition No. 1 for fair representation!

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By OneAmerica Votes , Casa Latina, League of Women Voters, NAACP, Everett Firefighters 46

Everett City Proposition #2

VOTE YES

Support Option A for Equitable Representation

The City of Everett has put forth Proposition No. 2, a measure to determine the number of districts and at-large city council seats if voters approve Proposition No. 1. Option A, an electoral system based on five Council Districts and two Citywide positions, is the stronger choice.

Each of the five districts in Option A would have an elected representative on the city council who lives in the district. Option A would enable the city council to be more responsive to community-based concerns because each councilmember would be aware of local issues and equipped to address the needs of the community.

Option B is a weaker proposal for a four district and three citywide position model. This is problematic because it could lead to inequitable representation if three citywide candidates and a district candidate are elected from the same district. Voters should be mindful that the enactment of Proposition No. 2 is contingent upon the passage of Proposition No. 1. Vote for Option A.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

The City of Everett has put forth Proposition No. 2, a measure to determine the number of districts and at-large city council seats if voters approve Proposition No. 1. Option A, an electoral system based on five Council Districts and two Citywide positions, is the stronger choice.

Each of the five districts in Option A would have an elected representative on the city council who lives in the district. Option A would enable the city council to be more responsive to community-based concerns because each councilmember would be aware of local issues and equipped to address the needs of the community.

Option B is a weaker proposal for a four district and three citywide position model. This is problematic because it could lead to inequitable representation if three citywide candidates and a district candidate are elected from the same district. Voters should be mindful that the enactment of Proposition No. 2 is contingent upon the passage of Proposition No. 1. Vote for Option A.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By OneAmerica Votes

Everett City Proposition #3

VOTE YES

Vote YES for Emergency Medical Services

When a loved one is having a heart attack, the last thing to be worrying about is whether first responders have the necessary staffing, equipment, and training to assist. The City of Everett has proposed Proposition No. 3, an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy to meet the needs of the growing population. The increase in demand for EMS services has grown by 26 percent over the past decade. In 2017, Everett Fire and Rescue responded to 17,237 patients despite a decrease in funding. Proposition No. 3 would restore the EMS levy to $0.50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, which would cost the owner of a $200,000 home $100 per year. If the levy fails, it is estimated that the existing funding source will fall short by more than $1 million dollars and that critical life-saving services would have to be cut. Vote to approve Proposition No. 3.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

When a loved one is having a heart attack, the last thing to be worrying about is whether first responders have the necessary staffing, equipment, and training to assist. The City of Everett has proposed Proposition No. 3, an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy to meet the needs of the growing population. The increase in demand for EMS services has grown by 26 percent over the past decade. In 2017, Everett Fire and Rescue responded to 17,237 patients despite a decrease in funding. Proposition No. 3 would restore the EMS levy to $0.50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, which would cost the owner of a $200,000 home $100 per year. If the levy fails, it is estimated that the existing funding source will fall short by more than $1 million dollars and that critical life-saving services would have to be cut. Vote to approve Proposition No. 3.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Other Progressive Candidates in Local Elections

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

Other Races in Snohomish County

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

Public Utility District Commissioner District 1

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Non-Partisan

Mary Rollins

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Mary Rollins is running to ensure that utilities are managed in the most equitable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly way possible. She serves as chair of the 38th Legislative District Democrats and is focused on reducing energy costs for Snohomish County families. One of Rollins' proposals is to build charging stations at the local PUD office to support the growing number of electric vehicle users.

Rollins is running against conservative incumbent Sidney "Sid" Logan. Logan is a former Shell engineer and consultant who is running after being appointed to this seat last year.

Rollins is the best choice for Snohomish County PUD Commissioner Position 1 because of her commitment to renewable energy and keeping costs low for consumers.

Last updated: 2023-04-11

Mary Rollins is running to ensure that utilities are managed in the most equitable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly way possible. She serves as chair of the 38th Legislative District Democrats and is focused on reducing energy costs for Snohomish County families. One of Rollins' proposals is to build charging stations at the local PUD office to support the growing number of electric vehicle users.

Rollins is running against conservative incumbent Sidney "Sid" Logan. Logan is a former Shell engineer and consultant who is running after being appointed to this seat last year.

Rollins is the best choice for Snohomish County PUD Commissioner Position 1 because of her commitment to renewable energy and keeping costs low for consumers.

Last updated: 2023-04-11

Endorsed By: Sierra Club , Washington Conservation Action , Snohomish County Democrats