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Democrat

Matthew Sutherland

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Army veteran Matthew Sutherland is currently serving in the National Guard. He is running for the 9th Legislative District House Position 2 to address the rising costs of healthcare and prescription drugs. Sutherland believes that working people should come first and he is committed to bringing living wage jobs to central Washington and improving K-12 education.

Sutherland is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Joe Schmick. First elected in 2007, Rep. Schmick has spent the past 11 years opposing abortion access and commonsense tax reform measures like closing wasteful tax loopholes for powerful special interest groups. Sutherland is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Army veteran Matthew Sutherland is currently serving in the National Guard. He is running for the 9th Legislative District House Position 2 to address the rising costs of healthcare and prescription drugs. Sutherland believes that working people should come first and he is committed to bringing living wage jobs to central Washington and improving K-12 education.

Sutherland is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Joe Schmick. First elected in 2007, Rep. Schmick has spent the past 11 years opposing abortion access and commonsense tax reform measures like closing wasteful tax loopholes for powerful special interest groups. Sutherland is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

9th 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

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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.

4th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Christine Brown photo
Democrat

Christine Brown

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

5th Congressional District

U.S. Representative

Lisa Brown photo
Democrat

Lisa Brown

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

9th Legislative District

State Representative, Position #1

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Democrat

Jenn Goulet

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Pasco progressive Jennifer Goulet is a community activist who is active with the Franklin County Democrats. Goulet has a long history of community involvement on racial equity, women’s rights, and the environment. Her political background includes serving as a local precinct committee officer and as a member of the Board of Directors for Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho. Goulet has been a vocal advocate for affordable health care, increased government accountability, and reining in the influence of corporations on our elections.

Goulet is challenging incumbent Republican Representative Mary Dye. Rep. Dye is a social conservative who is most well known for asking visiting teens lobbying for Planned Parenthood if they were virgins. In 2018, Rep. Dye was also one of the few House Republicans to vote against a measure that would provide breakfast to hungry school children. Throughout her time in Olympia, Rep. Mary Dye has shown that she lacks the willingness to build bridges across the aisle on important social issues. Goulet is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Pasco progressive Jennifer Goulet is a community activist who is active with the Franklin County Democrats. Goulet has a long history of community involvement on racial equity, women’s rights, and the environment. Her political background includes serving as a local precinct committee officer and as a member of the Board of Directors for Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho. Goulet has been a vocal advocate for affordable health care, increased government accountability, and reining in the influence of corporations on our elections.

Goulet is challenging incumbent Republican Representative Mary Dye. Rep. Dye is a social conservative who is most well known for asking visiting teens lobbying for Planned Parenthood if they were virgins. In 2018, Rep. Dye was also one of the few House Republicans to vote against a measure that would provide breakfast to hungry school children. Throughout her time in Olympia, Rep. Mary Dye has shown that she lacks the willingness to build bridges across the aisle on important social issues. Goulet is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Representative, Position #2

Matthew Sutherland photo
Democrat

Matthew Sutherland

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Army veteran Matthew Sutherland is currently serving in the National Guard. He is running for the 9th Legislative District House Position 2 to address the rising costs of healthcare and prescription drugs. Sutherland believes that working people should come first and he is committed to bringing living wage jobs to central Washington and improving K-12 education.

Sutherland is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Joe Schmick. First elected in 2007, Rep. Schmick has spent the past 11 years opposing abortion access and commonsense tax reform measures like closing wasteful tax loopholes for powerful special interest groups. Sutherland is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Army veteran Matthew Sutherland is currently serving in the National Guard. He is running for the 9th Legislative District House Position 2 to address the rising costs of healthcare and prescription drugs. Sutherland believes that working people should come first and he is committed to bringing living wage jobs to central Washington and improving K-12 education.

Sutherland is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Joe Schmick. First elected in 2007, Rep. Schmick has spent the past 11 years opposing abortion access and commonsense tax reform measures like closing wasteful tax loopholes for powerful special interest groups. Sutherland is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Spokane County

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

Spokane County Assessor

Tom Konis photo
Republican

Tom Konis

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Spokane Regional Labor Council AFL-CIO, AFSCME Labor Union 1553

Spokane County Auditor

Vicky Dalton photo
Democrat

Vicky Dalton

Website Endorsements

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Spokane County Clerk

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Democrat

Michael Kirk

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Spokane County Democrats

Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney

No Good Choices

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.

Spokane County Sheriff

No Good Choices

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.

Spokane County Treasurer

David Green photo
Democrat

David Green

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Spokane County Democrats, Spokane Regional Labor Council, AFL-CIO

Spokane County, District 2

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

Spokane County Commissioner, District 2

Mary Kuney photo
Republican

Mary Kuney

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Spokane County Commissioner Mary Kuney is a moderate Republican who was appointed to the commission by Governor Jay Inslee in September of 2017. Kuney is a certified public accountant and the former Chief Deputy Auditor for Spokane County, a role in which she worked across county departments to streamline budgets and improve efficiencies.

Kuney is being challenged by Spokane County Treasurer Rob Chase. Chase is a far-right Republican who is running on an anti-tax platform and has been endorsed by extreme Republicans like Rep. Matt Shea.

While we don’t agree with Kuney on every issue, we believe she’s clearly the better choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Spokane County Commissioner Mary Kuney is a moderate Republican who was appointed to the commission by Governor Jay Inslee in September of 2017. Kuney is a certified public accountant and the former Chief Deputy Auditor for Spokane County, a role in which she worked across county departments to streamline budgets and improve efficiencies.

Kuney is being challenged by Spokane County Treasurer Rob Chase. Chase is a far-right Republican who is running on an anti-tax platform and has been endorsed by extreme Republicans like Rep. Matt Shea.

While we don’t agree with Kuney on every issue, we believe she’s clearly the better choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Spokane Regional Labor Council, Spokane County Fire District 8 Local 3711

State Supreme Court

Justice, Position #2

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Susan Owens

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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 Three, District One

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

Judge, Position #1

Laurel Siddoway photo

Laurel Siddoway

Website

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Spokane County District Court

Spokane County District Court Judge, Position #1

Patrick Johnson photo

Patrick Johnson

Website Endorsements

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Spokane Regional Labor Council; United Food-Commercial Workers Union Local 1439

Whitman County District Court

Whitman County District Court Judge, Position #1

John Hart photo

John Hart

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Municipal Court Judge John Hart is running for Whitman County District Court Judge Position 1. If elected, Judge Hart would bring more than 17 years of legal experience to the bench. Currently, he serves as a judge in the Colfax Municipal Court and as a pro-tem (substitute) judge in Whitman County District Court. Hart believes that his decisions in the courtroom should serve the community's interests and aims to provide defendants with the opportunity to improve their lives.

Hart is running a competitive race against private attorney Rob Rembert, who has also served a pro-tem judge for the Whitman County District Court system. While Rembert has relevant judicial and legal experience, his candidacy lacks support from the greater judicial community. Judge Hart is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Municipal Court Judge John Hart is running for Whitman County District Court Judge Position 1. If elected, Judge Hart would bring more than 17 years of legal experience to the bench. Currently, he serves as a judge in the Colfax Municipal Court and as a pro-tem (substitute) judge in Whitman County District Court. Hart believes that his decisions in the courtroom should serve the community's interests and aims to provide defendants with the opportunity to improve their lives.

Hart is running a competitive race against private attorney Rob Rembert, who has also served a pro-tem judge for the Whitman County District Court system. While Rembert has relevant judicial and legal experience, his candidacy lacks support from the greater judicial community. Judge Hart is the best choice in this race.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Spokane County Superior Court

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

Superior Court Judge, Position #10

DC Cronin photo

DC Cronin

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: National Organization for Women PAC , Spokane County Democrats, Aerospace Machinists Industrial District Lodge 751, Washington State National Organization of Women (NOW), Northeast Washington/Northern Idaho Building and Construction Trades Council, Spokane Community Against Racism (SCAR)
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
Shelley Szambelan photo

Shelley Szambelan

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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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: Spokane Regional Labor Council, Washington State Young Democrats, 6th Legislative District Democrats, United Food & Commercial Workers Union Local 1439
Bar Association Ratings:
Washington Women Lawyers: "Exceptionally Well Qualified" Spokane Bar Association: "Exceptionally Well Qualified/Well Qualified"

Spokane Ballot Measures

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

Spokane City Proposition #1

VOTE YES

Say YES to Support Our Public Libraries

Libraries are the foundation of a bright future for our children and our community. The Spokane City Council has put forth Proposition No. 1 to finance the remodeling, construction, and maintenance of Spokane's public library system. Proposition No. 1 would authorize $77,000,000 in general obligation bonds to pay for the remodeling of the Downtown, South Hill and Indian Trail branches as well as the expansion of the Shadle branch. Additionally, the funds would be used to build two new branches and to buy additional books and library kiosks throughout the city. Approving this proposal would maintain the current tax rate. Vote YES to fully fund local libraries.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Libraries are the foundation of a bright future for our children and our community. The Spokane City Council has put forth Proposition No. 1 to finance the remodeling, construction, and maintenance of Spokane's public library system. Proposition No. 1 would authorize $77,000,000 in general obligation bonds to pay for the remodeling of the Downtown, South Hill and Indian Trail branches as well as the expansion of the Shadle branch. Additionally, the funds would be used to build two new branches and to buy additional books and library kiosks throughout the city. Approving this proposal would maintain the current tax rate. Vote YES to fully fund local libraries.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Spokane City Advisory Vote #1

VOTE YES

Vote for Option B for a Downtown Stadium

The Spokane City Council has put forward a non-binding advisory vote regarding the location of a new family-friendly stadium for Spokane Public Schools to replace aging the Joe Albi Stadium. A vote for Option A indicates a preference that the new stadium be located at the present site of Albi Stadium and a vote for Option B indicates a preference for the new stadium to be located in a current surface parking lot next to the Spokane Arena downtown. Regardless of the outcome of this vote, Joe Albi stadium is slated to be demolished and a new middle school will be erected in its place.

The plans for either location are not well developed and possible partnerships are still under exploration by city officials. An initial news report quoted a $10 million increase in cost for the downtown location due to the potential of need to build a parking garage. However, parking surveys of the area have indicated this added cost may not be necessary.

This advisory vote assumes that the costs and size of the stadium would be the same in either location. Given these assumptions, we believe that voters should support Option B due to its central location and proximity to public transit. This will make it easier for low-income families and students to get to regional school events at the stadium. The downtown location also will attract further business in the downtown core. Voters concerned about the stadium growing in scope and costs should continue to track this issue and hold city officials accountable.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

The Spokane City Council has put forward a non-binding advisory vote regarding the location of a new family-friendly stadium for Spokane Public Schools to replace aging the Joe Albi Stadium. A vote for Option A indicates a preference that the new stadium be located at the present site of Albi Stadium and a vote for Option B indicates a preference for the new stadium to be located in a current surface parking lot next to the Spokane Arena downtown. Regardless of the outcome of this vote, Joe Albi stadium is slated to be demolished and a new middle school will be erected in its place.

The plans for either location are not well developed and possible partnerships are still under exploration by city officials. An initial news report quoted a $10 million increase in cost for the downtown location due to the potential of need to build a parking garage. However, parking surveys of the area have indicated this added cost may not be necessary.

This advisory vote assumes that the costs and size of the stadium would be the same in either location. Given these assumptions, we believe that voters should support Option B due to its central location and proximity to public transit. This will make it easier for low-income families and students to get to regional school events at the stadium. The downtown location also will attract further business in the downtown core. Voters concerned about the stadium growing in scope and costs should continue to track this issue and hold city officials accountable.

Last updated: 2023-04-05