Progressive Voters Guide Powered by Fuse WA
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Democrat

Kristine Reeves

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Democratic state Representative Kristine Reeves was first elected in 2016. She is the Director of Economic Development for the Military and Defense sector for Washington state, where she has helped secure millions of dollars for small businesses and local infrastructure. Rep. Reeves is a champion of paid family and medical leave and was appointed this year to the Child Care Collaborative Task Force, where she will explore public-private partnerships that can help make raising a family more affordable. She has also advocated for vital progressive reforms this year, including funds to build a shelter for homeless women and children in Federal Way, as well as common sense gun safety legislation.

Rep. Reeves is running against veteran Mark Greene, a perennial candidate for several positions across the state. A deeply conservative candidate who is determined to fight "the Radical Left" and the "globalist mentality," his platform includes preserving American rights to self-defense and veterans' care.

Reeves is by far the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democratic state Representative Kristine Reeves was first elected in 2016. She is the Director of Economic Development for the Military and Defense sector for Washington state, where she has helped secure millions of dollars for small businesses and local infrastructure. Rep. Reeves is a champion of paid family and medical leave and was appointed this year to the Child Care Collaborative Task Force, where she will explore public-private partnerships that can help make raising a family more affordable. She has also advocated for vital progressive reforms this year, including funds to build a shelter for homeless women and children in Federal Way, as well as common sense gun safety legislation.

Rep. Reeves is running against veteran Mark Greene, a perennial candidate for several positions across the state. A deeply conservative candidate who is determined to fight "the Radical Left" and the "globalist mentality," his platform includes preserving American rights to self-defense and veterans' care.

Reeves is by far the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

30th 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

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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

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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

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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

Federal

U.S. Senator

Maria Cantwell photo
Democrat

Maria Cantwell

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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.

8th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Dr. Kim Schrier photo
Democrat

Dr. Kim Schrier

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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

9th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Adam Smith photo
Democrat

Adam Smith

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Representative Adam Smith has been a reliable vote in Congress on progressive issues from taxation to immigration reform. He represents Washington's first majority-minority district, a community with 30 percent foreign-born residents and large Asian, Hispanic, and African-American communities. Rep. Smith is an advocate for greater equality, supports a path to citizenship for immigrants, reforming the tax code, and Medicare for All. Rep. Smith has used his position on the Armed Services Committee to introduce and support legislation that tempers Trump's belligerent foreign policy moves, including a bill that states the U.S. will not strike a country with nuclear weapons first.

Rep. Smith is running against Democrat Sarah Smith, who is challenging Rep. Smith from the left. She's running on a comprehensive progressive platform including Medicare for All, alleviating student loan debt, supporting a nationwide tenants’ bill of rights, and building 10 million social homes. Sarah Smith is highly critical of Rep. Smith’s votes in favor of the Iraq War and the Patriot Act. However, during her interview with Fuse staff, she failed to produce a robust and detailed plan for how she would implement the sweeping reforms she supports, politically and economically.

Rep. Adam Smith is the best choice in this race because of his experience, in-depth knowledge of public policy, and strong support from a wide range of progressive advocacy organizations.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Representative Adam Smith has been a reliable vote in Congress on progressive issues from taxation to immigration reform. He represents Washington's first majority-minority district, a community with 30 percent foreign-born residents and large Asian, Hispanic, and African-American communities. Rep. Smith is an advocate for greater equality, supports a path to citizenship for immigrants, reforming the tax code, and Medicare for All. Rep. Smith has used his position on the Armed Services Committee to introduce and support legislation that tempers Trump's belligerent foreign policy moves, including a bill that states the U.S. will not strike a country with nuclear weapons first.

Rep. Smith is running against Democrat Sarah Smith, who is challenging Rep. Smith from the left. She's running on a comprehensive progressive platform including Medicare for All, alleviating student loan debt, supporting a nationwide tenants’ bill of rights, and building 10 million social homes. Sarah Smith is highly critical of Rep. Smith’s votes in favor of the Iraq War and the Patriot Act. However, during her interview with Fuse staff, she failed to produce a robust and detailed plan for how she would implement the sweeping reforms she supports, politically and economically.

Rep. Adam Smith is the best choice in this race because of his experience, in-depth knowledge of public policy, and strong support from a wide range of progressive advocacy organizations.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

30th Legislative District

State Senator

Claire Wilson photo
Democrat

Claire Wilson

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Claire Wilson is the President of the Federal Way School Board and previously worked for 25 years at the Puget Sound Educational Service District specializing in early learning. She has devoted her career to education and is running for state Senate in Legislative District 30 to improve opportunities for students across the state. In addition, Wilson is committed to expanding access to quality, affordable health care and streamlining transportation projects that have left South King County stuck in traffic.

Wilson’s opponent is socially conservative Republican Senator Mark Miloscia. Sen. Miloscia is opposed to safe and legal abortion access and marriage equality. He supports allowing employers to deny coverage for birth control and co-sponsored a bill that could ban many forms of birth control. Sen. Miloscia voted against LGBTQ protections for school kids during this year’s session and even called those who participated in the Women’s March “unAmerican” and “un-Christian.” However, Miloscia has been a reliable vote on important labor issues and was endorsed by some of our union partners.

We believe Wilson is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Claire Wilson is the President of the Federal Way School Board and previously worked for 25 years at the Puget Sound Educational Service District specializing in early learning. She has devoted her career to education and is running for state Senate in Legislative District 30 to improve opportunities for students across the state. In addition, Wilson is committed to expanding access to quality, affordable health care and streamlining transportation projects that have left South King County stuck in traffic.

Wilson’s opponent is socially conservative Republican Senator Mark Miloscia. Sen. Miloscia is opposed to safe and legal abortion access and marriage equality. He supports allowing employers to deny coverage for birth control and co-sponsored a bill that could ban many forms of birth control. Sen. Miloscia voted against LGBTQ protections for school kids during this year’s session and even called those who participated in the Women’s March “unAmerican” and “un-Christian.” However, Miloscia has been a reliable vote on important labor issues and was endorsed by some of our union partners.

We believe Wilson is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Representative, Position #1

Mike Pellicciotti photo
Democrat

Mike Pellicciotti

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Democratic Representative Mike Pellicciotti is running for re-election to the 30th Legislative District House Position 1. Pellicciotti is a former South King County prosecutor who has worked alongside public safety officials to keep our community safe for more than a decade. He is the former chair of the Washington Equal Justice Coalition, which works to ensure that all people are treated equally before the law and that low-income people have access to civil legal aid. This year, Rep. Pellicciotti worked with fellow representative Kristine Reeves on improving schools and creating local jobs.

Rep. Pellicciotti is running against Republican Linda Kochmar, who served as a state representative from 2013 to 2017. During her time in the Legislature, Kochmar voted against raising the minimum wage and against ensuring women earn equal pay for doing the same job as men.

Rep. Pellicciotti is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democratic Representative Mike Pellicciotti is running for re-election to the 30th Legislative District House Position 1. Pellicciotti is a former South King County prosecutor who has worked alongside public safety officials to keep our community safe for more than a decade. He is the former chair of the Washington Equal Justice Coalition, which works to ensure that all people are treated equally before the law and that low-income people have access to civil legal aid. This year, Rep. Pellicciotti worked with fellow representative Kristine Reeves on improving schools and creating local jobs.

Rep. Pellicciotti is running against Republican Linda Kochmar, who served as a state representative from 2013 to 2017. During her time in the Legislature, Kochmar voted against raising the minimum wage and against ensuring women earn equal pay for doing the same job as men.

Rep. Pellicciotti is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Representative, Position #2

Kristine Reeves photo
Democrat

Kristine Reeves

Website Facebook Endorsements

Democratic state Representative Kristine Reeves was first elected in 2016. She is the Director of Economic Development for the Military and Defense sector for Washington state, where she has helped secure millions of dollars for small businesses and local infrastructure. Rep. Reeves is a champion of paid family and medical leave and was appointed this year to the Child Care Collaborative Task Force, where she will explore public-private partnerships that can help make raising a family more affordable. She has also advocated for vital progressive reforms this year, including funds to build a shelter for homeless women and children in Federal Way, as well as common sense gun safety legislation.

Rep. Reeves is running against veteran Mark Greene, a perennial candidate for several positions across the state. A deeply conservative candidate who is determined to fight "the Radical Left" and the "globalist mentality," his platform includes preserving American rights to self-defense and veterans' care.

Reeves is by far the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democratic state Representative Kristine Reeves was first elected in 2016. She is the Director of Economic Development for the Military and Defense sector for Washington state, where she has helped secure millions of dollars for small businesses and local infrastructure. Rep. Reeves is a champion of paid family and medical leave and was appointed this year to the Child Care Collaborative Task Force, where she will explore public-private partnerships that can help make raising a family more affordable. She has also advocated for vital progressive reforms this year, including funds to build a shelter for homeless women and children in Federal Way, as well as common sense gun safety legislation.

Rep. Reeves is running against veteran Mark Greene, a perennial candidate for several positions across the state. A deeply conservative candidate who is determined to fight "the Radical Left" and the "globalist mentality," his platform includes preserving American rights to self-defense and veterans' care.

Reeves is by far the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

King County

King County Prosecuting Attorney

Dan Satterberg photo
Non-Partisan

Dan Satterberg

Website Facebook Endorsements

King County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Satterberg is running for re-election on a platform of reforming and modernizing King County’s criminal justice system. His office’s Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program has become a national model for shifting low-level drug offenders and sex workers out of the criminal justice system and into community support services. Satterberg has been an outspoken advocate for outlawing the death penalty in Washington and he recently announced that his office will halt prosecutions for possession of small amounts of drugs.

Satterberg acknowledges the painful history of institutional racism in the King County prosecutor’s office and in the broader criminal justice system. He is actively working to change department policies and to train his staff to reduce the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on people of color. He offers thoughtful and detailed analyses of the challenges facing King County and he is willing to experiment with innovative new ways to support the community.

Satterberg is being challenged by progressive public defender Daron Morris. Morris has criticized Satterberg for not moving quickly and boldly enough to reform King County’s criminal justice system. In particular, Morris opposes the new youth jail that is currently under construction. Unfortunately, medical problems forced Morris to suspend his campaign in September.

Satterberg is the best choice for King County Prosecuting Attorney.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

King County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Satterberg is running for re-election on a platform of reforming and modernizing King County’s criminal justice system. His office’s Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program has become a national model for shifting low-level drug offenders and sex workers out of the criminal justice system and into community support services. Satterberg has been an outspoken advocate for outlawing the death penalty in Washington and he recently announced that his office will halt prosecutions for possession of small amounts of drugs.

Satterberg acknowledges the painful history of institutional racism in the King County prosecutor’s office and in the broader criminal justice system. He is actively working to change department policies and to train his staff to reduce the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on people of color. He offers thoughtful and detailed analyses of the challenges facing King County and he is willing to experiment with innovative new ways to support the community.

Satterberg is being challenged by progressive public defender Daron Morris. Morris has criticized Satterberg for not moving quickly and boldly enough to reform King County’s criminal justice system. In particular, Morris opposes the new youth jail that is currently under construction. Unfortunately, medical problems forced Morris to suspend his campaign in September.

Satterberg is the best choice for King County Prosecuting Attorney.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: The Stranger , Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Washington State Council of County and City Employees AFSCME Local 2, Teamsters Local 174

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

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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

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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 One

Judge, Position #4

Beth M. Andrus photo

Beth M. Andrus

Appointed earlier this year by Gov. Jay Inslee to this seat vacated by Judge Ronald Cox, Judge Beth M. Andrus is seeking to retain the Court of Appeals, District 1, Division 1 seat. Prior to entering the judiciary as a King County Superior Court Judge in 2010, Judge Andrus had a 21-year career as a private attorney practicing commercial litigation, intellectual property, construction, and employment law as well as appellate advocacy. In 2016, the King County Chapter of the Washington Women Lawyers Bar Association awarded her their Judge of the Year Award. Judge Andrus is known as an impartial problem solver who has a “tireless work ethic." It is also worth noting that she was nominated for a U.S. District Court appointment by former President Barack Obama, but the U.S. Senate refused to act on the nomination. Judge M. Andrus is unopposed and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Appointed earlier this year by Gov. Jay Inslee to this seat vacated by Judge Ronald Cox, Judge Beth M. Andrus is seeking to retain the Court of Appeals, District 1, Division 1 seat. Prior to entering the judiciary as a King County Superior Court Judge in 2010, Judge Andrus had a 21-year career as a private attorney practicing commercial litigation, intellectual property, construction, and employment law as well as appellate advocacy. In 2016, the King County Chapter of the Washington Women Lawyers Bar Association awarded her their Judge of the Year Award. Judge Andrus is known as an impartial problem solver who has a “tireless work ethic." It is also worth noting that she was nominated for a U.S. District Court appointment by former President Barack Obama, but the U.S. Senate refused to act on the nomination. Judge M. Andrus is unopposed and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: King County Democrats

Judge, Position #7

Marlin Appelwick photo

Marlin Appelwick

Chief Judge Marlin Appelwick has served on Washington’s Court of Appeals since 1998. Prior to entering the judiciary, Judge Appelwick was a private attorney and served for 16 years in the Legislature, including 12 years as a state representative for the 46th Legislative District. During his final three years in the Legislature, Judge Appelwick also served as the House Democratic Leader.

Since his appointment to the appellate court, Judge Appelwick has been committed to making just decisions, balancing judicial administration, and serving the public. He is committed to ensuring that information about the law is accessible for everyone and cares deeply about educating Washingtonians about their civil rights. He has been recognized by numerous organizations for his judicial expertise and conduct. Judge Marlin Appelwick is running unopposed for re-election and has earned another term.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Chief Judge Marlin Appelwick has served on Washington’s Court of Appeals since 1998. Prior to entering the judiciary, Judge Appelwick was a private attorney and served for 16 years in the Legislature, including 12 years as a state representative for the 46th Legislative District. During his final three years in the Legislature, Judge Appelwick also served as the House Democratic Leader.

Since his appointment to the appellate court, Judge Appelwick has been committed to making just decisions, balancing judicial administration, and serving the public. He is committed to ensuring that information about the law is accessible for everyone and cares deeply about educating Washingtonians about their civil rights. He has been recognized by numerous organizations for his judicial expertise and conduct. Judge Marlin Appelwick is running unopposed for re-election and has earned another term.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: King County Young Democrats

District Court

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

Pierce County District Court

Pierce County District Court Judge, Position #3

Lizanne Padula photo

Lizanne Padula

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Attorney Lizanne Padula is running for the Pierce County District Court Judge Position 3. As a former prosecutor, private litigator, and reserve police officer, Padula has spent her career helping people navigate the court system. Padula aims to improve the criminal justice system by prioritizing the public safety needs of the community and only offering punitive sanctions that serve to rehabilitate offenders. Padula is running on a platform that supports work-release and re-entry programs for convicted individuals.

Padula is opposed by Pierce County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tim Lewis. Lewis has spent more than 15 years serving Pierce County in the prosecuting attorney's office and is highly involved in the community. While Lewis has ample relevant experience, including serving as a pro tem (substitute) judge in Pierce and Kitsap County courts, a public allegation of misconduct has placed doubts on his candidacy.

Padula is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Attorney Lizanne Padula is running for the Pierce County District Court Judge Position 3. As a former prosecutor, private litigator, and reserve police officer, Padula has spent her career helping people navigate the court system. Padula aims to improve the criminal justice system by prioritizing the public safety needs of the community and only offering punitive sanctions that serve to rehabilitate offenders. Padula is running on a platform that supports work-release and re-entry programs for convicted individuals.

Padula is opposed by Pierce County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tim Lewis. Lewis has spent more than 15 years serving Pierce County in the prosecuting attorney's office and is highly involved in the community. While Lewis has ample relevant experience, including serving as a pro tem (substitute) judge in Pierce and Kitsap County courts, a public allegation of misconduct has placed doubts on his candidacy.

Padula is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Pierce County Democrats

Pierce County District Court Judge, Position #6

Karl Williams photo

Karl Williams

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Attorney Karl Williams is running for Pierce County District Court Position 6. With more than 30 years of legal experience, Williams is the most qualified candidate in this race. Williams has served as a judge pro tem for the cities of Fife, Puyallup, and Ruston, as well as on the Pierce County District Courts for more than 20 years. Williams is focused on keeping communities safe, ensuring that justice is administered fairly, and making the courts more accessible to underserved populations. He is passionate about serving the greater Pierce County community and volunteers with a number youth organizations including University Place Youth Court and the Pierce County Minority Bar Association. Williams has been rated "Exceptionally Well Qualified" by the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar, Washington Women Lawyers, and the Tacoma Pierce County Minority Bar Associations.

Williams is running a highly competitive race against current Assistant Chief Criminal Deputy Prosecutor John Sheeran, who has more than 22 years of legal experience. Sheeran is supportive of strengthening the mental health and drug courts in Pierce County. However, Karl Williams is the best choice in this race because of his judicial experience and ties with the community.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Attorney Karl Williams is running for Pierce County District Court Position 6. With more than 30 years of legal experience, Williams is the most qualified candidate in this race. Williams has served as a judge pro tem for the cities of Fife, Puyallup, and Ruston, as well as on the Pierce County District Courts for more than 20 years. Williams is focused on keeping communities safe, ensuring that justice is administered fairly, and making the courts more accessible to underserved populations. He is passionate about serving the greater Pierce County community and volunteers with a number youth organizations including University Place Youth Court and the Pierce County Minority Bar Association. Williams has been rated "Exceptionally Well Qualified" by the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar, Washington Women Lawyers, and the Tacoma Pierce County Minority Bar Associations.

Williams is running a highly competitive race against current Assistant Chief Criminal Deputy Prosecutor John Sheeran, who has more than 22 years of legal experience. Sheeran is supportive of strengthening the mental health and drug courts in Pierce County. However, Karl Williams is the best choice in this race because of his judicial experience and ties with the community.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Pierce County Democrats, Pierce County Young Democrats

Southeast District Court

Southeast District Court Judge, Position #1

Jason Poydras photo

Jason Poydras

Website Endorsements

Appointed to King County's Southeast Electoral District Court in April 2017, Judge Jason Poydras is running unopposed for re-election to the bench. During his 15-year career of practicing law, Judge Poydras has served as a public defender for the city of Seattle, prosecuting attorney for Pierce County, and an administrative law judge for the Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings. Judge Poydras is dedicated to public service, due process, and access to justice. Currently, he sits on the King County District Technology Committee - an entity that works to make the court system more accessible. Judge Jason Poydras has earned your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Appointed to King County's Southeast Electoral District Court in April 2017, Judge Jason Poydras is running unopposed for re-election to the bench. During his 15-year career of practicing law, Judge Poydras has served as a public defender for the city of Seattle, prosecuting attorney for Pierce County, and an administrative law judge for the Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings. Judge Poydras is dedicated to public service, due process, and access to justice. Currently, he sits on the King County District Technology Committee - an entity that works to make the court system more accessible. Judge Jason Poydras has earned your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , King County Young Democrats
Bar Association Ratings:
Latina/o Bar Association of Washington: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"
Q-Law Bar Association of Washington: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"
King County Bar Association: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"

Southeast District Court Judge, Position #2

Matthew York photo

Matthew York

Appointed to the court in April of 2017, Judge Matthew York previously served as a county Prosecuting Attorney and a pro tem (substitute) judge for King County's municipal courts. With more than two decades of combined judicial and legal experience behind him, Judge Matthew York received an "Exceptionally Well Qualified Rating" from several major independent bar associations including the King County Bar Association and Q-Law, the LGBTQ bar association. Judge Matthew York is focused on improving access to justice and cares deeply about ensuring that everyday people are equipped with resources they need to navigate the judicial system. Judge Matthew York is running unopposed and has earned another term.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Appointed to the court in April of 2017, Judge Matthew York previously served as a county Prosecuting Attorney and a pro tem (substitute) judge for King County's municipal courts. With more than two decades of combined judicial and legal experience behind him, Judge Matthew York received an "Exceptionally Well Qualified Rating" from several major independent bar associations including the King County Bar Association and Q-Law, the LGBTQ bar association. Judge Matthew York is focused on improving access to justice and cares deeply about ensuring that everyday people are equipped with resources they need to navigate the judicial system. Judge Matthew York is running unopposed and has earned another term.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Southeast District Court Judge, Position #3

Nathaniel B. Green photo

Nathaniel B. Green

First elected in 2010, Judge Nathaniel B. Green is a U.S. Navy veteran and a former Adjunct Professor at DeVry University who serves on the King County District Court. Judge Green "believes that justice and fairness are not just words to be spoken, but goals to be achieved." He is running unopposed and has earned another term.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

First elected in 2010, Judge Nathaniel B. Green is a U.S. Navy veteran and a former Adjunct Professor at DeVry University who serves on the King County District Court. Judge Green "believes that justice and fairness are not just words to be spoken, but goals to be achieved." He is running unopposed and has earned another term.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Southeast District Court Judge, Position #4

Corinna Harn photo

Corinna Harn

Judge Corinna Harn was elected in 1998 to serve on the King County District Court. After 20 years of public service, Judge Harn has become a leader on the district court, having served as a Presiding Judge and Assistant Presiding Judge for the West Division over the course of her career. Currently, Judge Harn also serves as a King County Superior Court pro tem (substitute) judge where she hears cases related to the Dependency Pre-Trial calendars at Juvenile Court and the Regional Justice Center. She cares deeply about serving the community, effective judicial administration, and giving each case the attention it rightfully deserves. Judge Corinna Harn is running unopposed and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Judge Corinna Harn was elected in 1998 to serve on the King County District Court. After 20 years of public service, Judge Harn has become a leader on the district court, having served as a Presiding Judge and Assistant Presiding Judge for the West Division over the course of her career. Currently, Judge Harn also serves as a King County Superior Court pro tem (substitute) judge where she hears cases related to the Dependency Pre-Trial calendars at Juvenile Court and the Regional Justice Center. She cares deeply about serving the community, effective judicial administration, and giving each case the attention it rightfully deserves. Judge Corinna Harn is running unopposed and deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Southeast District Court Judge, Position #5

Virginia M. Amato photo

Virginia M. Amato

Website Endorsements

Private attorney Virginia Amato is running for this open seat on King County's District Court. With more than 25 years of combined judicial and legal experience in the Pacific Northwest, Amato has earned the rating of "Exceptionally Well Qualified" from four independent bar associations. Her legal experience includes serving as a prosecuting attorney for several jurisdictions in Washington State. Additionally, Amato has served a pro tem (substitute) judge on King County's District Court since 2014. Virginia Amato is unopposed in this race and deserves your support.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Private attorney Virginia Amato is running for this open seat on King County's District Court. With more than 25 years of combined judicial and legal experience in the Pacific Northwest, Amato has earned the rating of "Exceptionally Well Qualified" from four independent bar associations. Her legal experience includes serving as a prosecuting attorney for several jurisdictions in Washington State. Additionally, Amato has served a pro tem (substitute) judge on King County's District Court since 2014. Virginia Amato is unopposed in this race and deserves your support.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: 31st District Democrats
Bar Association Ratings:
King County Bar Association: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"
Cardoza Society of Washington: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"
Q-LAW: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"
Washington Women Lawyer: "Exceptionally Well Qualified"

Southeast District Court Judge, Position #6

Rhonda Laumann photo

Rhonda Laumann

Website Facebook Endorsements

Attorney Rhonda Laumann is running unopposed for election to King County's Southeast Electoral District Court, Position 6. Her legal and judicial experience includes working as a prosecutor, a pro tem (substitute) judge in district and municipal courts, and as an independent mediator. Laumann has worked with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy for over 12 years educating and mentoring lawyers who want to be advocates. Laumann believes that judges should understand the challenges facing working people and are tasked with the responsibility of communicating the expectations of the justice system to everyone who stands before them. Rhonda Laumann deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Attorney Rhonda Laumann is running unopposed for election to King County's Southeast Electoral District Court, Position 6. Her legal and judicial experience includes working as a prosecutor, a pro tem (substitute) judge in district and municipal courts, and as an independent mediator. Laumann has worked with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy for over 12 years educating and mentoring lawyers who want to be advocates. Laumann believes that judges should understand the challenges facing working people and are tasked with the responsibility of communicating the expectations of the justice system to everyone who stands before them. Rhonda Laumann deserves your vote.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , King County Democrats