7th Legislative District
Not in 7th Legislative District? Find your state's guide.
Return Ballots by Tuesday, November 6th
The Progressive Voters Guide compiles the information you need to make informed decisions about the races on your ballot, based on your values. Vote in every race on your ballot! It's our right and our responsibility. Please share this guide with your friends and remember to vote by November 6!
Statewide Ballot Measures
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
Federal
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.
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.
Congress
4th Congressional District
Christine Brown is a former news anchor who has served on many community boards, including the Board of Directors for the Yakima Chamber of Commerce and the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce. She is seeking bipartisan action on climate change, a path towards citizenship for undocumented workers, and health care for all through a single-payer system that would extend the coverage of the Affordable Care Act. She also supports the transition to clean energy and consumer protections against big banks.
Brown is challenging Republican Representative Dan Newhouse. Rep. Newhouse is the former director of the state Department of Agriculture and a pro-Trump representative who has voted with the president 96 percent of the time. He supports Trump's tax plan and repealing the Affordable Care Act, which provides health care to hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians.
Brown is the best choice in this race.
Christine Brown is a former news anchor who has served on many community boards, including the Board of Directors for the Yakima Chamber of Commerce and the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce. She is seeking bipartisan action on climate change, a path towards citizenship for undocumented workers, and health care for all through a single-payer system that would extend the coverage of the Affordable Care Act. She also supports the transition to clean energy and consumer protections against big banks.
Brown is challenging Republican Representative Dan Newhouse. Rep. Newhouse is the former director of the state Department of Agriculture and a pro-Trump representative who has voted with the president 96 percent of the time. He supports Trump's tax plan and repealing the Affordable Care Act, which provides health care to hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians.
Brown is the best choice in this race.
5th Congressional District
It’s time for new leadership in Congress, and that starts here in Eastern Washington with Lisa Brown.
Brown is a former state Senator and chancellor of Washington State University Spokane. Brown is committed to building an economy that works for all of us and ensuring access to quality, affordable health care for every family. She is focused on listening to the needs of our local communities, not lobbyists, campaign donors, and national political leaders. She will protect our local environment, supports reproductive rights, and supports comprehensive immigration reform that protects Dreamers.
Brown’s opponent, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, is a party-line member of the House Republican leadership who has lost touch with the people she is supposed to represent. Rep. McMorris Rodgers was an enthusiastic supporter of the Republicans’ $1.5 trillion tax giveaway to billionaires and corporations. Last year, Rep. McMorris Rodgers was the only member of the Washington state delegation to vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which would have eliminated health care for 23 million Americans, including approximately 30,000 people in Eastern Washington.
Brown is the clear choice in this race because she is committed to putting working families first. Vote Lisa Brown for Congress in Washington's 5th Congressional District.
It’s time for new leadership in Congress, and that starts here in Eastern Washington with Lisa Brown.
Brown is a former state Senator and chancellor of Washington State University Spokane. Brown is committed to building an economy that works for all of us and ensuring access to quality, affordable health care for every family. She is focused on listening to the needs of our local communities, not lobbyists, campaign donors, and national political leaders. She will protect our local environment, supports reproductive rights, and supports comprehensive immigration reform that protects Dreamers.
Brown’s opponent, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, is a party-line member of the House Republican leadership who has lost touch with the people she is supposed to represent. Rep. McMorris Rodgers was an enthusiastic supporter of the Republicans’ $1.5 trillion tax giveaway to billionaires and corporations. Last year, Rep. McMorris Rodgers was the only member of the Washington state delegation to vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which would have eliminated health care for 23 million Americans, including approximately 30,000 people in Eastern Washington.
Brown is the clear choice in this race because she is committed to putting working families first. Vote Lisa Brown for Congress in Washington's 5th Congressional District.
8th Congressional District
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.
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.
7th Legislative District
Democrat Karen Hardy is a ranch teamster who is running to represent the 7th Legislative District in the state Senate. Hardy is determined to fight for single-payer health care, clean energy jobs, and fully-funded education with quality trade and apprenticeship programs.
Hardy is challenging incumbent Republican Senator Shelly Short. During her first term in the Legislature, Sen. Short voted to undermine reproductive health care and voted against widely-popular net neutrality protections for internet users. Hardy is the clear choice in this race.
Democrat Karen Hardy is a ranch teamster who is running to represent the 7th Legislative District in the state Senate. Hardy is determined to fight for single-payer health care, clean energy jobs, and fully-funded education with quality trade and apprenticeship programs.
Hardy is challenging incumbent Republican Senator Shelly Short. During her first term in the Legislature, Sen. Short voted to undermine reproductive health care and voted against widely-popular net neutrality protections for internet users. Hardy is the clear choice in this race.
Democrat Randy Michaelis is running for the 7th Legislative District House Position 1. Michaelis is the interim dean of Whitworth University’s School of Education and is a self-described "classic moderate." Michaelis supports Gov. Jay Inslee’s plans to increase state mental health services and wants to expand state resources into rural parts of the 7th Legislative District.
Michaelis faces an uphill race against Republican Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber, who has been an outspoken opponent of reproductive freedom and workers' rights. This year, Maycumber continued her conservative record by voting against banning bump stocks, expanding access to contraceptive care, and against the equal pay opportunity act, which protects women in the workplace. Michaelis is the best choice in this race.
Democrat Randy Michaelis is running for the 7th Legislative District House Position 1. Michaelis is the interim dean of Whitworth University’s School of Education and is a self-described "classic moderate." Michaelis supports Gov. Jay Inslee’s plans to increase state mental health services and wants to expand state resources into rural parts of the 7th Legislative District.
Michaelis faces an uphill race against Republican Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber, who has been an outspoken opponent of reproductive freedom and workers' rights. This year, Maycumber continued her conservative record by voting against banning bump stocks, expanding access to contraceptive care, and against the equal pay opportunity act, which protects women in the workplace. Michaelis is the best choice in this race.
Democrat Mike Bell is a U.S. Navy veteran and retired accountant who is focused on improving K-12 schools and making post-secondary education more affordable in Washington. Bell has experience working on congressional campaigns and advocated for conservation measures in Eastern Washington. He is a strong supporter of cleaning up Washington's upside-down tax code and limiting corporate money in politics. Bell is not accepting corporate donations or PAC money during this campaign cycle.
Bell faces an uphill race against incumbent Republican Rep. Joel Kretz. Rep. Kretz has been an obstacle to progress since 2004 and opposes commonsense reforms like gender pay equity, banning bump stocks, prohibiting conversion therapy on LGBTQ youth, and automatic voter registration.
Bell is the best choice in this race.
Democrat Mike Bell is a U.S. Navy veteran and retired accountant who is focused on improving K-12 schools and making post-secondary education more affordable in Washington. Bell has experience working on congressional campaigns and advocated for conservation measures in Eastern Washington. He is a strong supporter of cleaning up Washington's upside-down tax code and limiting corporate money in politics. Bell is not accepting corporate donations or PAC money during this campaign cycle.
Bell faces an uphill race against incumbent Republican Rep. Joel Kretz. Rep. Kretz has been an obstacle to progress since 2004 and opposes commonsense reforms like gender pay equity, banning bump stocks, prohibiting conversion therapy on LGBTQ youth, and automatic voter registration.
Bell is the best choice in this race.
Spokane County
Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.
There are no progressive choices in this race. Republican Tom Konis has more than 24 years of direct experience working in the Spokane County Assessor's office. A former realtor, Konis is also an accredited residential and commercial appraiser. If elected, Konis wants to improve office efficiency through the use of technology, improve communications with county commissioners, increase employee training, and approach the responsibilities of the office using an equity lens to ensure that "everyone pays their fair share, no more but no less."
Konis is opposed by former state Representative Leonard Christian. Christian is a conservative real estate broker and a "Republican Party District Leader." While Konis has been endorsed by the local Republican Party, he has also earned the support of local labor unions and demonstrated a willingness to work with local progressive advocates. Tom Konis is the stronger choice in this race.
There are no progressive choices in this race. Republican Tom Konis has more than 24 years of direct experience working in the Spokane County Assessor's office. A former realtor, Konis is also an accredited residential and commercial appraiser. If elected, Konis wants to improve office efficiency through the use of technology, improve communications with county commissioners, increase employee training, and approach the responsibilities of the office using an equity lens to ensure that "everyone pays their fair share, no more but no less."
Konis is opposed by former state Representative Leonard Christian. Christian is a conservative real estate broker and a "Republican Party District Leader." While Konis has been endorsed by the local Republican Party, he has also earned the support of local labor unions and demonstrated a willingness to work with local progressive advocates. Tom Konis is the stronger choice in this race.
Democrat Vicky Dalton has served Spokane County as auditor since 1999. As a certified public accountant and election administrator, Dalton believes in serving with integrity and works to improve the efficiency of county government through innovation, transparency, and accountability. Outside of her elected office, Dalton volunteers as a board member of the organization known as Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP) and is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association. She is running unopposed for reelection and deserves your vote.
Democrat Vicky Dalton has served Spokane County as auditor since 1999. As a certified public accountant and election administrator, Dalton believes in serving with integrity and works to improve the efficiency of county government through innovation, transparency, and accountability. Outside of her elected office, Dalton volunteers as a board member of the organization known as Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP) and is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association. She is running unopposed for reelection and deserves your vote.
Democrat Michael Kirk is running for Spokane County Clerk after serving 15 years in the ministry. Kirk wants to bring a service-based approach to the county clerk’s office that focuses on building relationships with the community. He is running on a strong social justice platform and wants to use the office to reform the criminal justice system, protect local families from discrimination by the Trump administration, and support efforts to keep housing affordable. Kirk is not accepting corporate donations to his campaign to demonstrate his commitment to serving the community instead of campaign contributors.
Kirk is running against incumbent Republican Tim Fitzgerald. A retired Marine colonel, Fitzgerald emphasizes his military leadership skills that he brings to the clerk’s office. Fitzgerald’s platform is focused on finding efficiencies and implementing budgets.
Kirk is the progressive choice for Spokane County Clerk.
Democrat Michael Kirk is running for Spokane County Clerk after serving 15 years in the ministry. Kirk wants to bring a service-based approach to the county clerk’s office that focuses on building relationships with the community. He is running on a strong social justice platform and wants to use the office to reform the criminal justice system, protect local families from discrimination by the Trump administration, and support efforts to keep housing affordable. Kirk is not accepting corporate donations to his campaign to demonstrate his commitment to serving the community instead of campaign contributors.
Kirk is running against incumbent Republican Tim Fitzgerald. A retired Marine colonel, Fitzgerald emphasizes his military leadership skills that he brings to the clerk’s office. Fitzgerald’s platform is focused on finding efficiencies and implementing budgets.
Kirk is the progressive choice for Spokane County Clerk.
First elected in 2014, Republican attorney Larry Haskell is running unopposed for the office of Spokane Prosecuting Attorney. While Haskell has strengthened the prosecuting attorney office's ability to handle domestic violence crimes and mental health issues, overall he has failed to represent interests of Spokane residents fairly and equitably. Most notably, Haskell requested a delay in prosecuting the Freeman High School shooting suspect Caleb Sharpe, citing technological mishap. Furthermore, in an interview he said "he wasn’t sure if [I-940] would have had an impact on any of the police shootings he’s investigated since leading the office," and he would support it if the voters passed it.
Haskell believes that "lowering property crime must be among the highest priorities in our community" and has worked hard to toughen penalties for repeat offenders and driving under the influence. Unfortunately, Haskell is running unopposed for reelection. Voters should write-in another candidate.
First elected in 2014, Republican attorney Larry Haskell is running unopposed for the office of Spokane Prosecuting Attorney. While Haskell has strengthened the prosecuting attorney office's ability to handle domestic violence crimes and mental health issues, overall he has failed to represent interests of Spokane residents fairly and equitably. Most notably, Haskell requested a delay in prosecuting the Freeman High School shooting suspect Caleb Sharpe, citing technological mishap. Furthermore, in an interview he said "he wasn’t sure if [I-940] would have had an impact on any of the police shootings he’s investigated since leading the office," and he would support it if the voters passed it.
Haskell believes that "lowering property crime must be among the highest priorities in our community" and has worked hard to toughen penalties for repeat offenders and driving under the influence. Unfortunately, Haskell is running unopposed for reelection. Voters should write-in another candidate.
There are no good choices in this race. In the aftermath of the shooting that left one student dead at Freeman High School last year in Spokane County, incumbent Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich blamed video games, people dressed in black, the media, gangs, and society for school shootings. Despite his office receiving an arsenal of weapons from the Department of Defense, Knezovich states that police militarization is a myth.
Sadly, Knezovich's opponent, Scott Maclay, who legally changed his name to DumpOzzie Dot Com, passed away after the primary election. Because it is too late for the county to remove his name from the ballot, if DumpOzzie Dot Com is posthumously elected a replacement may be selected by the county. Normally that process is done with nominees from the winning's candidate's preferred party, but DumpOzzie Dot Com is a member of the Independent Party, which does not have a branch in Spokane County according to The Spokesman-Review. If DumpOzzie Dot Com were to win, the issue may be decided post-election by the county after discussion with the state.
There are no good choices in this race. In the aftermath of the shooting that left one student dead at Freeman High School last year in Spokane County, incumbent Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich blamed video games, people dressed in black, the media, gangs, and society for school shootings. Despite his office receiving an arsenal of weapons from the Department of Defense, Knezovich states that police militarization is a myth.
Sadly, Knezovich's opponent, Scott Maclay, who legally changed his name to DumpOzzie Dot Com, passed away after the primary election. Because it is too late for the county to remove his name from the ballot, if DumpOzzie Dot Com is posthumously elected a replacement may be selected by the county. Normally that process is done with nominees from the winning's candidate's preferred party, but DumpOzzie Dot Com is a member of the Independent Party, which does not have a branch in Spokane County according to The Spokesman-Review. If DumpOzzie Dot Com were to win, the issue may be decided post-election by the county after discussion with the state.
Certified public accountant David Green is running for Spokane County Treasurer. With 35 years of financial planning experience and local political activism, Green is uniquely qualified to serve in this position. Green is the chair of the 3rd Legislative District Democrats and was previously a board trustee of the Fox Theater and the Spokane Symphony Society.
Green faces a competitive race against former Republican state Senator Michael Baumgartner, who retired from the Senate to run for this seat. During his tenure, Baumgartner rightfully earned a reputation as one of the most extreme and bombastic members of the Legislature. From his anti-LGBTQ and anti-abortion stances to his constant attacks on working people, Baumgartner is out of step with the people of Spokane and unfit to serve as treasurer.
Green is the clear choice in this race.
Certified public accountant David Green is running for Spokane County Treasurer. With 35 years of financial planning experience and local political activism, Green is uniquely qualified to serve in this position. Green is the chair of the 3rd Legislative District Democrats and was previously a board trustee of the Fox Theater and the Spokane Symphony Society.
Green faces a competitive race against former Republican state Senator Michael Baumgartner, who retired from the Senate to run for this seat. During his tenure, Baumgartner rightfully earned a reputation as one of the most extreme and bombastic members of the Legislature. From his anti-LGBTQ and anti-abortion stances to his constant attacks on working people, Baumgartner is out of step with the people of Spokane and unfit to serve as treasurer.
Green is the clear choice in this race.
Spokane County, District 3
Depending on where you live, you may have the following county races on your ballot.
Robbi Katherine Anthony is a trans woman and self-described progressive. Her campaign is prioritizing a data-driven approach to decision-making, repairing the $10 million county budget shortfall, and ensuring that the county is using up-to-date technology. She believes diversity boosts economic growth and is devoted to making Spokane County more inclusive.
Her opponent, Al French, is a conservative developer with a combative style and history of ethics complaints. He has alienated local cities by promoting aggressive urban sprawl and caused them to opt out of a regional garbage system that has cost the county millions in revenue. Anthony is the best choice in this race.
Robbi Katherine Anthony is a trans woman and self-described progressive. Her campaign is prioritizing a data-driven approach to decision-making, repairing the $10 million county budget shortfall, and ensuring that the county is using up-to-date technology. She believes diversity boosts economic growth and is devoted to making Spokane County more inclusive.
Her opponent, Al French, is a conservative developer with a combative style and history of ethics complaints. He has alienated local cities by promoting aggressive urban sprawl and caused them to opt out of a regional garbage system that has cost the county millions in revenue. Anthony is the best choice in this race.
State Supreme Court
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. br> br> Justice Owens is running unopposed for re-election and has earned your support.
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. br> br> Justice Owens is running unopposed for re-election and has earned your support.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Court of Appeals
Court of Appeals, Division Three, District One
Judge Laurel Siddoway is Washington’s presiding Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. First elected in 2010, Judge Siddoway is a non-partisan judge who previously worked as a private attorney representing both private and public clients in Eastern Washington for 30 years. Outside of the courtroom, Judge Siddoway is a trustee for the Spokane Symphony and was a founding member of the Rockwood Neighborhood Association. Her reputation for judicial independence, extensive expertise, and fairness earned her the unanimous endorsement of members of the state Supreme Court. Judge Siddoway has earned another term.
Judge Laurel Siddoway is Washington’s presiding Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. First elected in 2010, Judge Siddoway is a non-partisan judge who previously worked as a private attorney representing both private and public clients in Eastern Washington for 30 years. Outside of the courtroom, Judge Siddoway is a trustee for the Spokane Symphony and was a founding member of the Rockwood Neighborhood Association. Her reputation for judicial independence, extensive expertise, and fairness earned her the unanimous endorsement of members of the state Supreme Court. Judge Siddoway has earned another term.
Court of Appeals, Division Three, District Three
Judge Robert Lawrence-Berrey is the chief judge for Division 3 of Washington’s Court of Appeals. Appointed in May 2014, Judge Lawrence-Berrey was elected the following November. Prior to serving on the appellate court, Judge Lawrence-Berrey worked for 20 years as a trial and appellate attorney and served three years as a Yakima County Superior Court Judge. Judge Lawrence-Berrey is also highly active in the community. He has served on the Yakima Symphony Orchestra Board, the Yakima Juvenile Court Community Accountability Board, and the Central Washington Multiple Sclerosis Society Board. Judge Robert Lawrence-Berrey is running unopposed for re-election and deserves your vote.
Judge Robert Lawrence-Berrey is the chief judge for Division 3 of Washington’s Court of Appeals. Appointed in May 2014, Judge Lawrence-Berrey was elected the following November. Prior to serving on the appellate court, Judge Lawrence-Berrey worked for 20 years as a trial and appellate attorney and served three years as a Yakima County Superior Court Judge. Judge Lawrence-Berrey is also highly active in the community. He has served on the Yakima Symphony Orchestra Board, the Yakima Juvenile Court Community Accountability Board, and the Central Washington Multiple Sclerosis Society Board. Judge Robert Lawrence-Berrey is running unopposed for re-election and deserves your vote.
Spokane County District Court
There are no progressive candidates in this race for Spokane County District Court Judge, Position 1. Patrick Johnson is a somewhat conservative attorney who has served as a Spokane County Deputy Prosecutor for 20 years and argued more than 100 felony cases in his career. Johnson also serves as Senior Defense Counsel in the U.S. Army Reserves and has more than 25 years of military service under his belt. He has been a strong advocate for the alternative veterans court and wants to continue improving court services offered to veterans. He is also the Vice President of Local 1553PA and has earned the support of several local unions.
Johnson is opposed by attorney Randy Brandt, who last ran for a judicial seat in 2014. Through Brandt has extensive legal experience; he is running a misleading campaign by using old campaign signs that say "Judge" on them despite the fact that Mr. Brandt is not currently a judge. Brandt has also struggled to file his campaign finance disclosure reports correctly. Johnson is the stronger choice in this race.
There are no progressive candidates in this race for Spokane County District Court Judge, Position 1. Patrick Johnson is a somewhat conservative attorney who has served as a Spokane County Deputy Prosecutor for 20 years and argued more than 100 felony cases in his career. Johnson also serves as Senior Defense Counsel in the U.S. Army Reserves and has more than 25 years of military service under his belt. He has been a strong advocate for the alternative veterans court and wants to continue improving court services offered to veterans. He is also the Vice President of Local 1553PA and has earned the support of several local unions.
Johnson is opposed by attorney Randy Brandt, who last ran for a judicial seat in 2014. Through Brandt has extensive legal experience; he is running a misleading campaign by using old campaign signs that say "Judge" on them despite the fact that Mr. Brandt is not currently a judge. Brandt has also struggled to file his campaign finance disclosure reports correctly. Johnson is the stronger choice in this race.
Superior Court
Chelan County Superior Court
Interim Judge Kristin Ferrera is running to retain her seat as the Chelan County Superior Court Judge in Position 3. She was appointed in December 2017 and has brought more than 10 years of legal experience to the bench. As an attorney, she specialized in employment, family, tribal, immigration, and civil rights law. Currently, Judge Ferrera is the presiding judge for Chelan County's new drug court and serves on the board of the Campaign for Equal Justice, an organization dedicated to providing legal aid to families living in poverty.
Judge Ferrera is opposed by Wenatchee lawyer Charles R. Steinberg, who has been practicing law for more than 22 years. Steinberg specializes in estate and property rights law and was nationally recognized for his work defending property rights from "government encroachment". While Steinberg does have legal experience, Ferrera's judicial philosophy and legal experience are more closely aligned with the legal needs of the community.
Judge Ferrera is the best choice in this race.
Interim Judge Kristin Ferrera is running to retain her seat as the Chelan County Superior Court Judge in Position 3. She was appointed in December 2017 and has brought more than 10 years of legal experience to the bench. As an attorney, she specialized in employment, family, tribal, immigration, and civil rights law. Currently, Judge Ferrera is the presiding judge for Chelan County's new drug court and serves on the board of the Campaign for Equal Justice, an organization dedicated to providing legal aid to families living in poverty.
Judge Ferrera is opposed by Wenatchee lawyer Charles R. Steinberg, who has been practicing law for more than 22 years. Steinberg specializes in estate and property rights law and was nationally recognized for his work defending property rights from "government encroachment". While Steinberg does have legal experience, Ferrera's judicial philosophy and legal experience are more closely aligned with the legal needs of the community.
Judge Ferrera is the best choice in this race.
Judge Robert McSeveney is running for the Chelan Superior Court Position 2. First appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee in 2017, Judge McSeveney brings more than 23 years of combined legal and judicial experience to the position. Prior to serving in the Chelan Superior court system, he spent 17 years as a municipal court judge in Kent and nine years as a pro-tem (substitute) judge in King County Superior Court. Judge McSeveney was also appointed to by the Obama Administration in 2011 to serve as a United States immigration judge in San Diego, where he served for more than five years and presided over the first-of-in-the nation immigration mental health court. Judge McSeveney has been rated "exceptionally well qualified" by both the Joint Asian Bar Association and the Latino Bar Association of Washington.
Judge McSeveney is being challenged by Attorney Travis Brandt who is also rated as "exceptionally well qualified", but lacks broad support from Washington's judicial community. Judge McSeveney is the better choice in this race.
Judge Robert McSeveney is running for the Chelan Superior Court Position 2. First appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee in 2017, Judge McSeveney brings more than 23 years of combined legal and judicial experience to the position. Prior to serving in the Chelan Superior court system, he spent 17 years as a municipal court judge in Kent and nine years as a pro-tem (substitute) judge in King County Superior Court. Judge McSeveney was also appointed to by the Obama Administration in 2011 to serve as a United States immigration judge in San Diego, where he served for more than five years and presided over the first-of-in-the nation immigration mental health court. Judge McSeveney has been rated "exceptionally well qualified" by both the Joint Asian Bar Association and the Latino Bar Association of Washington.
Judge McSeveney is being challenged by Attorney Travis Brandt who is also rated as "exceptionally well qualified", but lacks broad support from Washington's judicial community. Judge McSeveney is the better choice in this race.
Latino Bar Association of Washington: Exceptionally well qualified.
Spokane County Superior Court
Dennis "DC" Cronin is a local attorney who is running to challenge the status quo of the judicial system. Cronin has served as a Spokane County Superior Court Commissioner Pro Tem (substitute) for ten years and has practiced law since 1984. He is strongly committed to ensuring that all families and individuals have the right to "equitable access to the justice system." Cronin has earned strong support from groups based in communities of color for his history of work on civil rights.
Dennis "DC" Cronin is a local attorney who is running to challenge the status quo of the judicial system. Cronin has served as a Spokane County Superior Court Commissioner Pro Tem (substitute) for ten years and has practiced law since 1984. He is strongly committed to ensuring that all families and individuals have the right to "equitable access to the justice system." Cronin has earned strong support from groups based in communities of color for his history of work on civil rights.
Bar Association Ratings:
Joint Asian Judicial Evaluation Committee: Exceptionally Well Qualified
Latina/Latino Bar Association: Exceptionally Well Qualified
Loren Miller Bar Association: Exceptionally Well Qualified
QLaw: Exceptionally Well Qualified
Appointed earlier this year by Gov. Jay Inslee, Judge Shelley Szambelan is running to retain her position on the Spokane County Superior Court. Previously, Judge Szambelan served as a judge on the Spokane Municipal Court for nine years and worked as an assistant city attorney and prosecutor for the City of Spokane. She has 25 years of legal experience and volunteers with the Washington State Minority and Justice Commission’s Youth & Justice Forum and Habitat for Humanity-Spokane.
Appointed earlier this year by Gov. Jay Inslee, Judge Shelley Szambelan is running to retain her position on the Spokane County Superior Court. Previously, Judge Szambelan served as a judge on the Spokane Municipal Court for nine years and worked as an assistant city attorney and prosecutor for the City of Spokane. She has 25 years of legal experience and volunteers with the Washington State Minority and Justice Commission’s Youth & Justice Forum and Habitat for Humanity-Spokane.
Bar Association Ratings:
Washington Women Lawyers: "Exceptionally Well Qualified" Spokane Bar Association: "Exceptionally Well Qualified/Well Qualified"
Spokane School District
The Spokane School District is proposing a $495.3 million bond to reduce overcrowding and improve schools. It will be used to build three new middle schools and to make practical structural improvements to four other schools in the Spokane School District. In addition, it will finance the construction of a cafeteria at Lewis & Clark High School and the acquisition of new technology. Approving this proposal would maintain the current tax rate.
Our schools are the foundation of our children's futures. Vote to reduce overcrowding and approve Proposition No. 1 for Spokane schools.
The Spokane School District is proposing a $495.3 million bond to reduce overcrowding and improve schools. It will be used to build three new middle schools and to make practical structural improvements to four other schools in the Spokane School District. In addition, it will finance the construction of a cafeteria at Lewis & Clark High School and the acquisition of new technology. Approving this proposal would maintain the current tax rate.
Our schools are the foundation of our children's futures. Vote to reduce overcrowding and approve Proposition No. 1 for Spokane schools.