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  • Sen. Liz Lovelett is running to retain her seat in Legislative District 40 after being appointed to the state Senate in February. Lovelett is a fifth-generation Anacortes resident who previously served on the Anacortes City Council. In her first few months in office, Lovelett prioritized environmental conservation and played a key role in passing legislation protecting orcas and the Salish Sea. If elected this November, Lovelett will also prioritize increasing affordable housing and expanding services for our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Elizabeth (Liz) Lovelett

    Sen. Liz Lovelett is running to retain her seat in Legislative District 40 after being appointed to the state Senate in February. Lovelett is a fifth-generation Anacortes resident who previously served on the Anacortes City Council.

    Sen. Liz Lovelett is running to retain her seat in Legislative District 40 after being appointed to the state Senate in February. Lovelett is a fifth-generation Anacortes resident who previously served on the Anacortes City Council. In her first few months in office, Lovelett prioritized environmental conservation and played a key role in passing legislation protecting orcas and the Salish Sea. If elected this November, Lovelett will also prioritize increasing affordable housing and expanding services for our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

    Elizabeth (Liz) Lovelett

    Sen. Liz Lovelett is running to retain her seat in Legislative District 40 after being appointed to the state Senate in February. Lovelett is a fifth-generation Anacortes resident who previously served on the Anacortes City Council.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU 775, SEIU Local 925, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, UFCW 3000, Washington Conservation Action, Housing Action Fund, Washington State Labor Council, 40th Legislative District Democrats (dual), Washington Education Association
  • Carrie Blackwood is a progressive labor lawyer and community activist in Bellingham who is running for state Senate in Legislative District 40. Blackwood, the daughter of immigrants, overcame challenges early in her life to earn a law degree and become an advocate for working families. Her campaign platform proposes a comprehensive “green transition” for our economy to heal our environment and create living wage jobs. She also supports reforming our state’s upside-down tax code to make the wealthy pay their share.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Carrie Blackwood

    Carrie Blackwood is a progressive labor lawyer and community activist in Bellingham who is running for state Senate in Legislative District 40. Blackwood, the daughter of immigrants, overcame challenges early in her life to earn a law degree and become an advocate for working families.

    Carrie Blackwood is a progressive labor lawyer and community activist in Bellingham who is running for state Senate in Legislative District 40. Blackwood, the daughter of immigrants, overcame challenges early in her life to earn a law degree and become an advocate for working families. Her campaign platform proposes a comprehensive “green transition” for our economy to heal our environment and create living wage jobs. She also supports reforming our state’s upside-down tax code to make the wealthy pay their share.

    Carrie Blackwood

    Carrie Blackwood is a progressive labor lawyer and community activist in Bellingham who is running for state Senate in Legislative District 40. Blackwood, the daughter of immigrants, overcame challenges early in her life to earn a law degree and become an advocate for working families.

  • Endorsed By: Riveters Collective, 40th Legislative District Democrats (dual), Lummi Nation Business Council

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

  • Satpal Sidhu is a small business owner and former dean of Bellingham Technical College who has called Whatcom County home for 30 years. Sidhu has served on the Whatcom County Council since 2015 and is a current board member on the Whatcom Community College Foundation and the NW Agricultural Business Center. He supports the preservation of farmland, bringing family-wage jobs to the county, improving water quality, and addressing housing shortages for future residents.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Satpal S. Sidhu

    Satpal Sidhu is a small business owner and former dean of Bellingham Technical College who has called Whatcom County home for 30 years.

    Satpal Sidhu is a small business owner and former dean of Bellingham Technical College who has called Whatcom County home for 30 years. Sidhu has served on the Whatcom County Council since 2015 and is a current board member on the Whatcom Community College Foundation and the NW Agricultural Business Center. He supports the preservation of farmland, bringing family-wage jobs to the county, improving water quality, and addressing housing shortages for future residents.

    Satpal S. Sidhu

    Satpal Sidhu is a small business owner and former dean of Bellingham Technical College who has called Whatcom County home for 30 years.

  • Endorsed By: Sierra Club, Washington Conservation Action, 42nd Legislative District Democrats, Riveters Collective
  • Karen Burke is the executive director of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County. She is the former director of the Lummi Nation Tribal Court and the Lummi Nation Child Support Program. Burke is dedicated to bringing together a coalition of family farmers, the Department of Ecology, the Nooksack Tribe, and the Lummi Nation to work on water protection. She has been working towards and will continue to support substance abuse treatment programs, and will work on reducing incarceration and crime through diversion and rehabilitation programs. Burke supports clean and sustainable energy alternatives at Cherry Point as the state transitions from fossil fuels.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Karen Burke

    Karen Burke is the executive director of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County. She is the former director of the Lummi Nation Tribal Court and the Lummi Nation Child Support Program.

    Karen Burke is the executive director of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County. She is the former director of the Lummi Nation Tribal Court and the Lummi Nation Child Support Program. Burke is dedicated to bringing together a coalition of family farmers, the Department of Ecology, the Nooksack Tribe, and the Lummi Nation to work on water protection. She has been working towards and will continue to support substance abuse treatment programs, and will work on reducing incarceration and crime through diversion and rehabilitation programs. Burke supports clean and sustainable energy alternatives at Cherry Point as the state transitions from fossil fuels.

    Karen Burke

    Karen Burke is the executive director of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County. She is the former director of the Lummi Nation Tribal Court and the Lummi Nation Child Support Program.

Other Candidates

Running against Satpal and Burke are Tony Larson and Jim Boyle. Larson is the president of the Whatcom Business Alliance. A former Whatcom County Council member, Larson is running as a business candidate and is focused on increasing economic opportunities for businesses. Jim Boyle works for the Organization for Tropical Studies on international environmental issues. His previous positions as a Forest Service firefighter and a bison ranch manager for the Nature Conservancy underline his enthusiasm for working on sustainability issues. His campaign is focused on building a strong economy, protecting the environment, and improving local quality of life by addressing homelessness, housing affordability, criminal justice reform, and more.

Whatcom County Other candidates

Running against Satpal and Burke are Tony Larson and Jim Boyle. Larson is the president of the Whatcom Business Alliance. A former Whatcom County Council member, Larson is running as a business candidate and is focused on increasing economic opportunities for businesses.

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

  • Incumbent Carol Frazey is a small business owner and former teacher who is running for re-election to the Whatcom County Council. Her platform is focused on developing youth health programs in nutrition, education, and the environment, increasing access to treatment programs to reduce incarceration rates, and supporting affordable housing. She is seeking to implement countywide broadband service, create a water protection plan for Lake Whatcom, and build a carbon-negative economy in the County.

    Frazey is running against David Ramirez, Bill LaFreniere, and Brett Bonner. Ramirez, who has been endorsed by the Whatcom County Republicans, is running to support individuals' rights to use, possess, and dispose of private property as they see fit. LaFreniere is running on a variety of conservative viewpoints from fighting unions to increasing mining and other industries, calling the earth's resources "inexhaustible."

    In late May, Bonner confessed to sexually harassing a Whatcom County woman online while "blackout drunk." At the time he was the Whatcom County Republican vice chair. The confession came too late to withdraw from the election, but Bonner has thankfully suspended his campaign.

    Carol Frazey is by far the best candidate in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Carol Frazey

    Incumbent Carol Frazey is a small business owner and former teacher who is running for re-election to the Whatcom County Council.

    Incumbent Carol Frazey is a small business owner and former teacher who is running for re-election to the Whatcom County Council. Her platform is focused on developing youth health programs in nutrition, education, and the environment, increasing access to treatment programs to reduce incarceration rates, and supporting affordable housing. She is seeking to implement countywide broadband service, create a water protection plan for Lake Whatcom, and build a carbon-negative economy in the County.

    Frazey is running against David Ramirez, Bill LaFreniere, and Brett Bonner. Ramirez, who has been endorsed by the Whatcom County Republicans, is running to support individuals' rights to use, possess, and dispose of private property as they see fit. LaFreniere is running on a variety of conservative viewpoints from fighting unions to increasing mining and other industries, calling the earth's resources "inexhaustible."

    In late May, Bonner confessed to sexually harassing a Whatcom County woman online while "blackout drunk." At the time he was the Whatcom County Republican vice chair. The confession came too late to withdraw from the election, but Bonner has thankfully suspended his campaign.

    Carol Frazey is by far the best candidate in this race.

    Carol Frazey

    Incumbent Carol Frazey is a small business owner and former teacher who is running for re-election to the Whatcom County Council.

County Council District Races

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

  • Brian Estes, the vice chair of the executive board of the Whatcom County Democrats, is now running for District 4 on the County Council. Estes' top priorities include resolving water quantity issues, creating high-wage jobs in business, technology, agriculture, and other industries, expanding job training programs, and expanding funding for diversion programs. 

    Estes is running against Brad Kelly and Kathy Kershner. Kelly's platform focuses on "conservative beliefs in lower taxes, limited government, and freedom." Kelly's campaign includes repealing the Cherry Point moratorium on new or expanded projects that would ship unrefined fossil fuels from Cherry Point.

    Kershner is a former commissioned officer in the Navy and the current chair of the Whatcom County Republican Party. She is a former member of the Whatcom Council County from 2010 to 2014. Her campaign focuses include preserving agricultural heritage and ensuring water access.

    Estes is the clear progressive choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Brian Estes, the vice chair of the executive board of the Whatcom County Democrats, is now running for District 4 on the County Council. Estes' top priorities include resolving water quantity issues, creating high-wage jobs in business, technology, agriculture, and other industries, expanding job training programs, and expanding funding for diversion programs. 

    Estes is running against Brad Kelly and Kathy Kershner. Kelly's platform focuses on "conservative beliefs in lower taxes, limited government, and freedom." Kelly's campaign includes repealing the Cherry Point moratorium on new or expanded projects that would ship unrefined fossil fuels from Cherry Point.

    Kershner is a former commissioned officer in the Navy and the current chair of the Whatcom County Republican Party. She is a former member of the Whatcom Council County from 2010 to 2014. Her campaign focuses include preserving agricultural heritage and ensuring water access.

    Estes is the clear progressive choice in this race.

  • Jaime Arnett, a former Habitat for Humanity worker from a longtime commercial fishing family, is running for the new coastal district seat on the Whatcom County Council. She was appointed unanimously to the Blaine City Council in early 2019 after Councilmember Olson resigned last year. Her campaign is centered on environmental protections, including safeguarding clean water for fish and people, restoring salmon populations, honoring tribal treaty-protected rights, and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Arnett is also aiming to tackle affordable housing, homelessness, and a lack of behavioral health resources.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jaime Arnett

    Jaime Arnett, a former Habitat for Humanity worker from a longtime commercial fishing family, is running for the new coastal district seat on the Whatcom County Council. She was appointed unanimously to the Blaine City Council in early 2019 after Councilmember Olson resigned last year.

    Jaime Arnett, a former Habitat for Humanity worker from a longtime commercial fishing family, is running for the new coastal district seat on the Whatcom County Council. She was appointed unanimously to the Blaine City Council in early 2019 after Councilmember Olson resigned last year. Her campaign is centered on environmental protections, including safeguarding clean water for fish and people, restoring salmon populations, honoring tribal treaty-protected rights, and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Arnett is also aiming to tackle affordable housing, homelessness, and a lack of behavioral health resources.

    Jaime Arnett

    Jaime Arnett, a former Habitat for Humanity worker from a longtime commercial fishing family, is running for the new coastal district seat on the Whatcom County Council. She was appointed unanimously to the Blaine City Council in early 2019 after Councilmember Olson resigned last year.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, Washington Conservation Action, Riveters Collective, 42nd Legislative District Democrats
  • Natalie McClendon is serving her second term as a Whatcom County Planning Commissioner. She has served as chair of the Whatcom Democrats and has volunteered with the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood, and other community organizations. If elected to the county council, McClendon says she will tackle issues of land and water use, affordable housing, and lack of job opportunities.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Natalie McClendon

    Natalie McClendon is serving her second term as a Whatcom County Planning Commissioner. She has served as chair of the Whatcom Democrats and has volunteered with the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood, and other community organizations.

    Natalie McClendon is serving her second term as a Whatcom County Planning Commissioner. She has served as chair of the Whatcom Democrats and has volunteered with the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood, and other community organizations. If elected to the county council, McClendon says she will tackle issues of land and water use, affordable housing, and lack of job opportunities.

    Natalie McClendon

    Natalie McClendon is serving her second term as a Whatcom County Planning Commissioner. She has served as chair of the Whatcom Democrats and has volunteered with the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood, and other community organizations.

  • Endorsed By: Sierra Club

Other Candidates

Also running in this race is conservative Ben Elenbaas, a farmer and an 18-year employee of BP's Cherry Point Refinery and president of the WC Farm Bureau. He also served on the Whatcom County Planning Commission. He is running "to restore a balance to the council." In regards to the moratorium at Cherry Point, Elenbaas has stated that he would "seek to facilitate a regulatory environment in which these companies can continue to improve, upgrade and remain reliable, something our current council has demonstrated they are not willing to do."

Port Races

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

  • Preeti Shridhar is a devoted environmental advocate who would bring decades of public affairs experience to the Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2. Shridhar has worked in a variety of relevant government positions throughout King County and is passionate about ensuring that the interests of all King County communities are represented. She helped launch the City of Seattle’s Climate Protection Initiative and worked to improve relations between immigrant communities and the City of Renton, where she now works. Shridhar is focused on building regional partnerships and creating good jobs at the port while protecting the environment.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Preeti Shridhar

    Submitted by jay on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 11:34

    Preeti Shridhar is a devoted environmental advocate who would bring decades of public affairs experience to the Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2.

    Preeti Shridhar is a devoted environmental advocate who would bring decades of public affairs experience to the Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2. Shridhar has worked in a variety of relevant government positions throughout King County and is passionate about ensuring that the interests of all King County communities are represented. She helped launch the City of Seattle’s Climate Protection Initiative and worked to improve relations between immigrant communities and the City of Renton, where she now works. Shridhar is focused on building regional partnerships and creating good jobs at the port while protecting the environment.

    Preeti Shridhar

    Submitted by jay on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 11:34

    Preeti Shridhar is a devoted environmental advocate who would bring decades of public affairs experience to the Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2.

  • Sam Cho, the co-founder of an international export company, is now running for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2. He served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress. As the son of South Korean immigrants, Cho is running to make the Port of Seattle work better for all people in King County, from reducing congestion at SeaTac Airport to supporting low-income families south of the airport who are impacted by noise and air pollution. He also wants to use the port as an economic engine to create opportunities for the county’s rapidly growing population.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sam Cho

    Submitted by jay on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 11:38

    Sam Cho, the co-founder of an international export company, is now running for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2. He served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress.

    Sam Cho, the co-founder of an international export company, is now running for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2. He served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress. As the son of South Korean immigrants, Cho is running to make the Port of Seattle work better for all people in King County, from reducing congestion at SeaTac Airport to supporting low-income families south of the airport who are impacted by noise and air pollution. He also wants to use the port as an economic engine to create opportunities for the county’s rapidly growing population.

    Sam Cho

    Submitted by jay on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 11:38

    Sam Cho, the co-founder of an international export company, is now running for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 2. He served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress.

  • Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running to retain his seat on the Seattle Port Commission to continue fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission in protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and promoting transparency at the port while advocating for well-paying jobs. The port faced criticism following the Trump Muslim Ban when some protesters on the light rail were forced to skip the airport station. However, Felleman was among numerous leaders who released a statement condemning the ban and calling for an evaluation of the numerous government agencies’ response at the airport.

    Felleman is being challenged by Garth Jacobson and Jordan Lemmon. Attorney Jacobson's priorities include pausing cruise line terminal growth until pollution cleanup efforts are further along, finding a way to eliminate the bus shuttles from the car rental facility, and installing availability lights in the airport parking structure. Lemmon is a theatre supervisor who was inspired to run to encourage voting and is using his campaign to engage the voter base prior to the 2020 election. He has no detailed campaign information available.

    Felleman is the best choice for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 5. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Fred Felleman

    Submitted by jay on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 14:07

    Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running to retain his seat on the Seattle Port Commission to continue fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs.

    Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running to retain his seat on the Seattle Port Commission to continue fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission in protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and promoting transparency at the port while advocating for well-paying jobs. The port faced criticism following the Trump Muslim Ban when some protesters on the light rail were forced to skip the airport station. However, Felleman was among numerous leaders who released a statement condemning the ban and calling for an evaluation of the numerous government agencies’ response at the airport.

    Felleman is being challenged by Garth Jacobson and Jordan Lemmon. Attorney Jacobson's priorities include pausing cruise line terminal growth until pollution cleanup efforts are further along, finding a way to eliminate the bus shuttles from the car rental facility, and installing availability lights in the airport parking structure. Lemmon is a theatre supervisor who was inspired to run to encourage voting and is using his campaign to engage the voter base prior to the 2020 election. He has no detailed campaign information available.

    Felleman is the best choice for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 5. 

    Fred Felleman

    Submitted by jay on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 14:07

    Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running to retain his seat on the Seattle Port Commission to continue fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs.

  • Justin Camarata is a software program manager who previously served as an interim member of the Tacoma City Council. He has also served the community in numerous organizations, including the Center for Urban Waters, Puget Sound Regional Council’s Transportation Policy Board, and the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center Executive Board. Camarata is running for the Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 3 to create an equity strategy for the port, partner with the Puyallup Tribe on port issues, and move the port away from fossil fuels and towards green jobs. He recognizes the environmental disparities that low-income people face and wants to focus on hiring locally for port jobs and getting young people and new communities involved in port affairs.

    Camarata is facing Frank Boykin and Deanna Keller. Boykin is an account manager with United Parcel Service. He has served as vice chair of the University Place Planning Commission as well as a leader in Tacoma's Black Collective, the Annie Wright School, Pierce College Foundation, and Washington’s Commission on African American Affairs. Boykin is running to increase the Port's engagement with the community, encourage responsible growth, and protect family-wage jobs. Keller is a Marine Corps veteran who is currently the CEO and President of Kel-Tech Plastics in Tacoma. She is focusing on modernizing facilities at the Port, creating family-wage jobs, and keeping the Port competitive in the region.

    Camarata received the most support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners, impressed our local volunteer council during his interview, and has the most progressive campaign platform among the three candidates. Camarata is the best choice for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 3.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Justin Camarata

    Submitted by Collin on Mon, 07/01/2019 - 13:17

    Justin Camarata is a software program manager who previously served as an interim member of the Tacoma City Council.

    Justin Camarata is a software program manager who previously served as an interim member of the Tacoma City Council. He has also served the community in numerous organizations, including the Center for Urban Waters, Puget Sound Regional Council’s Transportation Policy Board, and the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center Executive Board. Camarata is running for the Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 3 to create an equity strategy for the port, partner with the Puyallup Tribe on port issues, and move the port away from fossil fuels and towards green jobs. He recognizes the environmental disparities that low-income people face and wants to focus on hiring locally for port jobs and getting young people and new communities involved in port affairs.

    Camarata is facing Frank Boykin and Deanna Keller. Boykin is an account manager with United Parcel Service. He has served as vice chair of the University Place Planning Commission as well as a leader in Tacoma's Black Collective, the Annie Wright School, Pierce College Foundation, and Washington’s Commission on African American Affairs. Boykin is running to increase the Port's engagement with the community, encourage responsible growth, and protect family-wage jobs. Keller is a Marine Corps veteran who is currently the CEO and President of Kel-Tech Plastics in Tacoma. She is focusing on modernizing facilities at the Port, creating family-wage jobs, and keeping the Port competitive in the region.

    Camarata received the most support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners, impressed our local volunteer council during his interview, and has the most progressive campaign platform among the three candidates. Camarata is the best choice for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 3.

    Justin Camarata

    Submitted by Collin on Mon, 07/01/2019 - 13:17

    Justin Camarata is a software program manager who previously served as an interim member of the Tacoma City Council.

  • Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action, The 29th and 30th Legislative District Democrats, Sierra Club - Tatoosh Group
  • Attorney Kristin Ang is running for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to build a sustainable vision for industry at the port alongside the sub-area plan. She seeks to protect community health and the environment by reducing noise and air pollution, improving water quality, and increasing shore power technology. Ang opposes the port's property tax and supports pressing businesses to clean up their share of pollution, developing a comprehensive public engagement plan, and working with tribes, businesses, and local government to create shared agendas for the port.

    Ang is running against Dave Bryant and Shelly Schlumpf. Bryant is a Navy veteran who wants to optimize the loading and offloading of goods with surface transportation, update infrastructure, and take measurable steps to clean the environment in alignment with shipping companies. Schlumpf is the former ‎president and CEO of the Puyallup-Sumner Chamber of Commerce; she currently runs a consulting business. She ran as a Republican for Representative of the 25th District in 2012. Schlumpf's campaign is centered on business retention and job creation.

    Ang is the best choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Kristin Ang

    Submitted by Collin on Sun, 06/30/2019 - 14:21

    Attorney Kristin Ang is running for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to build a sustainable vision for industry at the port alongside the sub-area plan.

    Attorney Kristin Ang is running for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to build a sustainable vision for industry at the port alongside the sub-area plan. She seeks to protect community health and the environment by reducing noise and air pollution, improving water quality, and increasing shore power technology. Ang opposes the port's property tax and supports pressing businesses to clean up their share of pollution, developing a comprehensive public engagement plan, and working with tribes, businesses, and local government to create shared agendas for the port.

    Ang is running against Dave Bryant and Shelly Schlumpf. Bryant is a Navy veteran who wants to optimize the loading and offloading of goods with surface transportation, update infrastructure, and take measurable steps to clean the environment in alignment with shipping companies. Schlumpf is the former ‎president and CEO of the Puyallup-Sumner Chamber of Commerce; she currently runs a consulting business. She ran as a Republican for Representative of the 25th District in 2012. Schlumpf's campaign is centered on business retention and job creation.

    Ang is the best choice in this race.

    Kristin Ang

    Submitted by Collin on Sun, 06/30/2019 - 14:21

    Attorney Kristin Ang is running for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to build a sustainable vision for industry at the port alongside the sub-area plan.

City Races

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

  • April Barker, a Bellingham City Council member, substitute school teacher, and 20-year resident of Bellingham, is now running for Mayor. She serves as the Chair of the Planning and Community Development Committee and a member of numerous other committees, including Justice, Finance, Public Works, and Accessible Technologies. As a council member, she has prioritized criminal justice reform, combating climate change, improving transportation options, and offering more affordable housing options.

    The centerpiece of Barker's campaign is creating more affordable housing. She lays out a detailed plan about how building more housing will strengthen the economy, fight climate change, reduce homelessness, improve transportation, and address historical inequities. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    April Barker

    April Barker, a Bellingham City Council member, substitute school teacher, and 20-year resident of Bellingham, is now running for Mayor.

    April Barker, a Bellingham City Council member, substitute school teacher, and 20-year resident of Bellingham, is now running for Mayor. She serves as the Chair of the Planning and Community Development Committee and a member of numerous other committees, including Justice, Finance, Public Works, and Accessible Technologies. As a council member, she has prioritized criminal justice reform, combating climate change, improving transportation options, and offering more affordable housing options.

    The centerpiece of Barker's campaign is creating more affordable housing. She lays out a detailed plan about how building more housing will strengthen the economy, fight climate change, reduce homelessness, improve transportation, and address historical inequities. 

    April Barker

    April Barker, a Bellingham City Council member, substitute school teacher, and 20-year resident of Bellingham, is now running for Mayor.

  • Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action, 42nd Legislative District Democrats, Riveters Collective
  • Pinky Vargas is a Bellingham City Council member and 2018 state Senate candidate who works at Puget Sound Energy helping local businesses save energy and reduce costs. While on the council, she has worked to protect Lake Whatcom and balanced the city budget without increasing taxes. Vargas is running to diversify the local economy, reduce homelessness, and make Bellingham a leader on environmental conservation. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Pinky Vargas

    Pinky Vargas is a Bellingham City Council member and 2018 state Senate candidate who works at Puget Sound Energy helping local businesses save energy and reduce costs. While on the council, she has worked to protect Lake Whatcom and balanced the city budget without increasing taxes.

    Pinky Vargas is a Bellingham City Council member and 2018 state Senate candidate who works at Puget Sound Energy helping local businesses save energy and reduce costs. While on the council, she has worked to protect Lake Whatcom and balanced the city budget without increasing taxes. Vargas is running to diversify the local economy, reduce homelessness, and make Bellingham a leader on environmental conservation. 

    Pinky Vargas

    Pinky Vargas is a Bellingham City Council member and 2018 state Senate candidate who works at Puget Sound Energy helping local businesses save energy and reduce costs. While on the council, she has worked to protect Lake Whatcom and balanced the city budget without increasing taxes.

  • Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28, Washington Conservation Action, Northwest Washington Labor Council, Laborers' Local 242, IBEW Local 191

Other Candidates

Barker and Vargas are facing progressive Seth Fleetwood and Garrett O'Brien. Fleetwood is a lawyer, co-chair of the Whatcom County Housing Affordability Task Force, former member of both the Whatcom County Council and Bellingham City Council, and a 2014 state Senate candidate. He is running to bring collaborative solutions to homelessness and housing affordability and help ensure a just transition to a clean energy future. 

Garrett O’Brien is a moderate Planning Commission member who owns a home-building company in Bellingham. His campaign is focused on bringing people together and he offers a number of business-focused solutions to the housing and homelessness crisis.

Bellingham Mayor other candidates

Barker and Vargas are facing progressive Seth Fleetwood and Garrett O'Brien. Fleetwood is a lawyer, co-chair of the Whatcom County Housing Affordability Task Force, former member of both the Whatcom County Council and Bellingham City Council, and a 2014 state Senate candidate.

  • Hollie Huthman is the owner of the Shakedown, a metal bar, and the Racket, a pinball lounge and bar. Huthman is running on a platform of affordable housing, job creation, and criminal justice reform. She is endorsed by current Bellingham City Councilmembers Gene Knutson, Pinky Vargas, and Terry Borneman, in addition to several past council members.

    Huthman is running against Von Emeth Ochoa and Dana Briggs. Paraeducator Ochoa, who currently lives without permanent housing, is an outspoken advocate for improving services for the homeless and was the first person selected to live in the tiny home project developed by the nonprofit HomesNOW! Not Later. Briggs is a cook at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital who is running on a platform of combating climate change and protecting the Salish Sea. Brooks also wants to implement housing first policies to reduce homelessness and make Bellingham a sanctuary city.

    We believe Huthman's thorough platform, strong campaign presence, and impressive support from progressive advocates makes her the best choice for the at-large seat on Bellingham City Council.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Hollie Huthman

    Hollie Huthman is the owner of the Shakedown, a metal bar, and the Racket, a pinball lounge and bar. Huthman is running on a platform of affordable housing, job creation, and criminal justice reform.

    Hollie Huthman is the owner of the Shakedown, a metal bar, and the Racket, a pinball lounge and bar. Huthman is running on a platform of affordable housing, job creation, and criminal justice reform. She is endorsed by current Bellingham City Councilmembers Gene Knutson, Pinky Vargas, and Terry Borneman, in addition to several past council members.

    Huthman is running against Von Emeth Ochoa and Dana Briggs. Paraeducator Ochoa, who currently lives without permanent housing, is an outspoken advocate for improving services for the homeless and was the first person selected to live in the tiny home project developed by the nonprofit HomesNOW! Not Later. Briggs is a cook at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital who is running on a platform of combating climate change and protecting the Salish Sea. Brooks also wants to implement housing first policies to reduce homelessness and make Bellingham a sanctuary city.

    We believe Huthman's thorough platform, strong campaign presence, and impressive support from progressive advocates makes her the best choice for the at-large seat on Bellingham City Council.

    Hollie Huthman

    Hollie Huthman is the owner of the Shakedown, a metal bar, and the Racket, a pinball lounge and bar. Huthman is running on a platform of affordable housing, job creation, and criminal justice reform.

  • Endorsed By: Pro-Choice Washington, Sierra Club, 42nd Legislative District Democrats, Riveters Collective, Bellingham/Whatcom County Firefighters Local 106
  • Ashanti Monts-Treviska is a community activist running for Bellingham City Council in Ward 3. Monts-Treviska is a current board member of Whatcom Peace and Justice Center (WPJC). As a deaf Black woman of First American descent, she is striving to implement transformative justice and increase community conversation among underserved communities. She supports phasing out single-use plastics and making Bellingham into a stewardship city when it comes to sustainability and the environment. Monts-Treviska also wants to push local colleges to adopt new strategies for their students to graduate debt-free.

    Also in this race is Raymond Straka, who does not have a strong campaign presence.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Ashanti Monts-Treviska

    Ashanti Monts-Treviska is a community activist running for Bellingham City Council in Ward 3. Monts-Treviska is a current board member of Whatcom Peace and Justice Center (WPJC).

    Ashanti Monts-Treviska is a community activist running for Bellingham City Council in Ward 3. Monts-Treviska is a current board member of Whatcom Peace and Justice Center (WPJC). As a deaf Black woman of First American descent, she is striving to implement transformative justice and increase community conversation among underserved communities. She supports phasing out single-use plastics and making Bellingham into a stewardship city when it comes to sustainability and the environment. Monts-Treviska also wants to push local colleges to adopt new strategies for their students to graduate debt-free.

    Also in this race is Raymond Straka, who does not have a strong campaign presence.

    Ashanti Monts-Treviska

    Ashanti Monts-Treviska is a community activist running for Bellingham City Council in Ward 3. Monts-Treviska is a current board member of Whatcom Peace and Justice Center (WPJC).

  • Fundraising and development company owner Daniel Hammill was appointed in 2014 and elected in 2015 to represent Bellingham, Ward 3 on the city council. He has been a longtime advocate for affordable housing and for people experiencing homelessness, including his work co-founding the Bellingham/Whatcom Project Homeless Connect to engage hundreds of volunteers in providing human services to unhoused people. He is very active with the Whatcom Volunteer Center and Food Bank, local schools, and the bicycle community.

    We lean toward Hammill because of his impressive work addressing the homelessness crisis facing Bellingham.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Daniel Hammill

    Fundraising and development company owner Daniel Hammill was appointed in 2014 and elected in 2015 to represent Bellingham, Ward 3 on the city council.

    Fundraising and development company owner Daniel Hammill was appointed in 2014 and elected in 2015 to represent Bellingham, Ward 3 on the city council. He has been a longtime advocate for affordable housing and for people experiencing homelessness, including his work co-founding the Bellingham/Whatcom Project Homeless Connect to engage hundreds of volunteers in providing human services to unhoused people. He is very active with the Whatcom Volunteer Center and Food Bank, local schools, and the bicycle community.

    We lean toward Hammill because of his impressive work addressing the homelessness crisis facing Bellingham.

    Daniel Hammill

    Fundraising and development company owner Daniel Hammill was appointed in 2014 and elected in 2015 to represent Bellingham, Ward 3 on the city council.

  • Endorsed By: Pro-Choice Washington

School Districts

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

  • Eric Blumhagen is a professional engineer running for Seattle School Board in District 1. He has served as legislative chair for his children’s elementary school PTA and as advocacy chair and vice president for their high school PTO. Previously, Blumhagen served as a volunteer spokesperson against I-1240, the ballot measure that legalized charter schools in Washington.

    Blumhagen recognizes the importance of reaching out to the community to listen and learn about how to close the opportunity gap. He supports using restorative justice in schools to reduce the disproportionate punishment of students of color. Blumhagen would also expand investments in Ethnic Studies and Since Time Immemorial curricula in Seattle Public Schools. He wants to see flexibility in enrollment and for Seattle to emulate successful programs started elsewhere in the region, like Everett's attendance program.

    Blumhagen highlights his support from the past four Seattle School Board presidents as evidence of his relationships and readiness to serve the students of Seattle.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Eric Blumhagen

    Eric Blumhagen is a professional engineer running for Seattle School Board in District 1. He has served as legislative chair for his children’s elementary school PTA and as advocacy chair and vice president for their high school PTO.

    Eric Blumhagen is a professional engineer running for Seattle School Board in District 1. He has served as legislative chair for his children’s elementary school PTA and as advocacy chair and vice president for their high school PTO. Previously, Blumhagen served as a volunteer spokesperson against I-1240, the ballot measure that legalized charter schools in Washington.

    Blumhagen recognizes the importance of reaching out to the community to listen and learn about how to close the opportunity gap. He supports using restorative justice in schools to reduce the disproportionate punishment of students of color. Blumhagen would also expand investments in Ethnic Studies and Since Time Immemorial curricula in Seattle Public Schools. He wants to see flexibility in enrollment and for Seattle to emulate successful programs started elsewhere in the region, like Everett's attendance program.

    Blumhagen highlights his support from the past four Seattle School Board presidents as evidence of his relationships and readiness to serve the students of Seattle.

    Eric Blumhagen

    Eric Blumhagen is a professional engineer running for Seattle School Board in District 1. He has served as legislative chair for his children’s elementary school PTA and as advocacy chair and vice president for their high school PTO.

  • Endorsed By: King County Democrats
  • Liza Rankin is a community organizer and artist running for Seattle School Board in District 1. She serves on the PTA of her children's school as well as on the board of the Seattle Council PTSA and the advisory board at Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange at Magnuson Park. Rankin began her school activism bringing food to teachers walking picket lines during the 2015 strike.

    Rankin demonstrated detailed knowledge of the complex issues facing Seattle Public Schools during her in-person interview and highlighted her experience visiting or volunteering at half of the 102 schools in the district. She also shared examples of creative ways she supports students through her PTA work, including working with principals at the beginning of the school year to develop a list of supplies that low-income students need. 

    Rankin’s top priority would be to support the school board's new Strategic Plan and ensure that every child has equitable access and opportunity to learn. She also supports shifting the focus of PTAs from fundraising for local schools to advocacy for all students. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Liza Rankin

    Liza Rankin is a community organizer and artist running for Seattle School Board in District 1.

    Liza Rankin is a community organizer and artist running for Seattle School Board in District 1. She serves on the PTA of her children's school as well as on the board of the Seattle Council PTSA and the advisory board at Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange at Magnuson Park. Rankin began her school activism bringing food to teachers walking picket lines during the 2015 strike.

    Rankin demonstrated detailed knowledge of the complex issues facing Seattle Public Schools during her in-person interview and highlighted her experience visiting or volunteering at half of the 102 schools in the district. She also shared examples of creative ways she supports students through her PTA work, including working with principals at the beginning of the school year to develop a list of supplies that low-income students need. 

    Rankin’s top priority would be to support the school board's new Strategic Plan and ensure that every child has equitable access and opportunity to learn. She also supports shifting the focus of PTAs from fundraising for local schools to advocacy for all students. 

    Liza Rankin

    Liza Rankin is a community organizer and artist running for Seattle School Board in District 1.

  • Endorsed By: The Stranger, Seattle Education Association, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
  • Chandra Hampson is president of the Seattle Council PTSA and she has served as PTA president and vice president, among other roles. Prior to her involvement in Seattle Public Schools, Hampson worked as a bank examiner at Wells Fargo before becoming an independent consultant. Hampson wants to bring her financial management experience to the Seattle School Board. She is unique among the candidates running for her experience managing large organizational budgets. 

    Hampson is HoChunk from the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and Anishinaabe from the White Earth Nation. She is very committed to closing the opportunity gap and wants more dual-language training for teachers and staff. She also supports ending in-school suspensions and wants more consistency from staff when it comes to dealing with racial incidents in schools. Like Liza Rankin in District 1, Hampson supports shifting the focus of PTAs from fundraising for local schools to advocacy for all students. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chandra Hampson

    Chandra Hampson is president of the Seattle Council PTSA and she has served as PTA president and vice president, among other roles.

    Chandra Hampson is president of the Seattle Council PTSA and she has served as PTA president and vice president, among other roles. Prior to her involvement in Seattle Public Schools, Hampson worked as a bank examiner at Wells Fargo before becoming an independent consultant. Hampson wants to bring her financial management experience to the Seattle School Board. She is unique among the candidates running for her experience managing large organizational budgets. 

    Hampson is HoChunk from the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and Anishinaabe from the White Earth Nation. She is very committed to closing the opportunity gap and wants more dual-language training for teachers and staff. She also supports ending in-school suspensions and wants more consistency from staff when it comes to dealing with racial incidents in schools. Like Liza Rankin in District 1, Hampson supports shifting the focus of PTAs from fundraising for local schools to advocacy for all students. 

    Chandra Hampson

    Chandra Hampson is president of the Seattle Council PTSA and she has served as PTA president and vice president, among other roles.

  • Endorsed By: OneAmerica Votes, The Stranger, Seattle Education Association, King County Democrats, Womxn of Color in Education (dual)
  • Rebeca Muñiz works for the Division of Public Behavioral Health and Justice Policy at UW overseeing budgets and coordinating research projects. She earned a master's degree in Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Washington and has volunteered with OneAmerica, the Gender Justice League, and the 43rd District Democrats. 

    As a first-generation Mexican-American whose mother struggled economically, Muñiz is dedicated to equity and stability for all students. She seeks to reform current disciplinary practices that disproportionately affect students of color, provide dual-language programs starting in Pre-K, hire mental health counselors, and adopt equitable funding by providing more resources to struggling schools. She supports banning out-of-school suspensions and wants to do more to reallocate funding to schools with more low-income students and students of color. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Rebeca Muñiz

    Rebeca Muñiz works for the Division of Public Behavioral Health and Justice Policy at UW overseeing budgets and coordinating research projects.

    Rebeca Muñiz works for the Division of Public Behavioral Health and Justice Policy at UW overseeing budgets and coordinating research projects. She earned a master's degree in Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Washington and has volunteered with OneAmerica, the Gender Justice League, and the 43rd District Democrats. 

    As a first-generation Mexican-American whose mother struggled economically, Muñiz is dedicated to equity and stability for all students. She seeks to reform current disciplinary practices that disproportionately affect students of color, provide dual-language programs starting in Pre-K, hire mental health counselors, and adopt equitable funding by providing more resources to struggling schools. She supports banning out-of-school suspensions and wants to do more to reallocate funding to schools with more low-income students and students of color. 

    Rebeca Muñiz

    Rebeca Muñiz works for the Division of Public Behavioral Health and Justice Policy at UW overseeing budgets and coordinating research projects.

  • Endorsed By: OneAmerica Votes, Womxn of Color in Education (dual)
  • Leslie Harris is a litigation paralegal, foster parent, Democratic Party activist, and the current president of the Seattle School Board. Elected in 2015, Harris is currently serving her second term as president. 

    Harris’s top priority is managing the district’s budget and finding ways to fund the many needs in Seattle Public Schools. She cites many examples of improvement in the district over the last four years but stresses that much work remains. Harris includes among her list of accomplishments the hiring of a new superintendent, passing a five-year racial equity plan, and adopting a capital levy for high-need high schools. Harris is also proud of hosting a monthly public meeting to answer questions and listen to the concerns of parents and students. 

    The Seattle School Board has suffered from significant turnover in recent years. The seven-member board will see at least three and as many as five new members after this November’s election. Harris is the only incumbent running again and she would be the longest-tenured member of the board if she is re-elected. Harris is a good choice if you’re looking for continuity on the school board. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Leslie S. Harris

    Leslie Harris is a litigation paralegal, foster parent, Democratic Party activist, and the current president of the Seattle School Board. Elected in 2015, Harris is currently serving her second term as president. 

    Leslie Harris is a litigation paralegal, foster parent, Democratic Party activist, and the current president of the Seattle School Board. Elected in 2015, Harris is currently serving her second term as president. 

    Harris’s top priority is managing the district’s budget and finding ways to fund the many needs in Seattle Public Schools. She cites many examples of improvement in the district over the last four years but stresses that much work remains. Harris includes among her list of accomplishments the hiring of a new superintendent, passing a five-year racial equity plan, and adopting a capital levy for high-need high schools. Harris is also proud of hosting a monthly public meeting to answer questions and listen to the concerns of parents and students. 

    The Seattle School Board has suffered from significant turnover in recent years. The seven-member board will see at least three and as many as five new members after this November’s election. Harris is the only incumbent running again and she would be the longest-tenured member of the board if she is re-elected. Harris is a good choice if you’re looking for continuity on the school board. 

    Leslie S. Harris

    Leslie Harris is a litigation paralegal, foster parent, Democratic Party activist, and the current president of the Seattle School Board. Elected in 2015, Harris is currently serving her second term as president. 

  • Endorsed By: The Stranger, King County Democrats
  • Molly Mitchell is the director of Student Support Programs at Seattle Central. She oversees various student support programs there, including the AmeriCorps Benefits Hub, Re-Entry/Prison Education, and Student Veteran Support. 

    Mitchell is running in District 6 to bring her experience as an educator, parent, and woman of color to the Seattle School Board. She is deeply invested in equity and has a great deal of experience working with marginalized students. She wants to address systemic racism in Seattle schools, including ending the school-to-prison pipeline, closing the opportunity gap, and reducing bullying. 

    Mitchell supports giving teachers and staff better training on restorative justice and trauma-informed care to support students instead of focusing on punishment. She is concerned that schools are treating the inability to learn as a behavioral issue and wants to see more Individualized Education Programs to give students the opportunity to thrive. 

    We lean toward Mitchell because we believe she would be an effective force for change to improve equity in Seattle Public Schools. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Molly E. Mitchell

    Molly Mitchell is the director of Student Support Programs at Seattle Central. She oversees various student support programs there, including the AmeriCorps Benefits Hub, Re-Entry/Prison Education, and Student Veteran Support. 

    Molly Mitchell is the director of Student Support Programs at Seattle Central. She oversees various student support programs there, including the AmeriCorps Benefits Hub, Re-Entry/Prison Education, and Student Veteran Support. 

    Mitchell is running in District 6 to bring her experience as an educator, parent, and woman of color to the Seattle School Board. She is deeply invested in equity and has a great deal of experience working with marginalized students. She wants to address systemic racism in Seattle schools, including ending the school-to-prison pipeline, closing the opportunity gap, and reducing bullying. 

    Mitchell supports giving teachers and staff better training on restorative justice and trauma-informed care to support students instead of focusing on punishment. She is concerned that schools are treating the inability to learn as a behavioral issue and wants to see more Individualized Education Programs to give students the opportunity to thrive. 

    We lean toward Mitchell because we believe she would be an effective force for change to improve equity in Seattle Public Schools. 

    Molly E. Mitchell

    Molly Mitchell is the director of Student Support Programs at Seattle Central. She oversees various student support programs there, including the AmeriCorps Benefits Hub, Re-Entry/Prison Education, and Student Veteran Support. 

  • Endorsed By: OneAmerica Votes, Seattle Education Association, Womxn of Color in Education
  • Nikki Otero Lockwood is a public schools advocate and community activist running for Spokane School Board Director, Position 1. She has served as chair of a Montessori parent group, as well as a member of the Human Growth and Development Committee and the Superintendent’s Work Group on Restorative Practices. She currently works as an organizer for the ACLU trying to reform the school to prison pipeline. As a mother of two, including a child with autism, she has advocated for special needs children as a member of the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. As part of her commitment to equitable policies and fully-funded education, she would push to reform school discipline, address systemic racism and inequality in schools, and ensure the accessibility of mental health workers for students.

    Lockwood is running against Brian Trimble and Katey Randall Treloar. Trimble is the Executive Director of the Herzog Family Center, an early learning academy. He is the father of three children, one currently in the school system. Trimble is focusing on mental health support for students, supporting all socio-economic populations, and providing services for special needs students with inclusion models. However, most of his endorsements are from businesses and in our local council interview, we were concerned by his comments about running the school board like a business. 

    Treloar is a former elementary school teacher who has served on the steering committee for At the Core and as program coordinator for Bite-2-Go, both programs focused on ending weekend hunger for children who receive free or reduced meals at school during the week. Treloar is running to address budget shortfalls, hold principals and administrators accountable for their conduct, and support community nonprofits that support students. In our local council interview, we were disappointed in her equity analysis and belief that solutions that worked for most kids should be supported (such as her suggestion to arm resource officers) instead of designing solutions that worked for the kids who are struggling the most.

    Lockwood is the best candidate in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Nikki Otero Lockwood

    Nikki Otero Lockwood is a public schools advocate and community activist running for Spokane School Board Director, Position 1.

    Nikki Otero Lockwood is a public schools advocate and community activist running for Spokane School Board Director, Position 1. She has served as chair of a Montessori parent group, as well as a member of the Human Growth and Development Committee and the Superintendent’s Work Group on Restorative Practices. She currently works as an organizer for the ACLU trying to reform the school to prison pipeline. As a mother of two, including a child with autism, she has advocated for special needs children as a member of the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. As part of her commitment to equitable policies and fully-funded education, she would push to reform school discipline, address systemic racism and inequality in schools, and ensure the accessibility of mental health workers for students.

    Lockwood is running against Brian Trimble and Katey Randall Treloar. Trimble is the Executive Director of the Herzog Family Center, an early learning academy. He is the father of three children, one currently in the school system. Trimble is focusing on mental health support for students, supporting all socio-economic populations, and providing services for special needs students with inclusion models. However, most of his endorsements are from businesses and in our local council interview, we were concerned by his comments about running the school board like a business. 

    Treloar is a former elementary school teacher who has served on the steering committee for At the Core and as program coordinator for Bite-2-Go, both programs focused on ending weekend hunger for children who receive free or reduced meals at school during the week. Treloar is running to address budget shortfalls, hold principals and administrators accountable for their conduct, and support community nonprofits that support students. In our local council interview, we were disappointed in her equity analysis and belief that solutions that worked for most kids should be supported (such as her suggestion to arm resource officers) instead of designing solutions that worked for the kids who are struggling the most.

    Lockwood is the best candidate in this race.

    Nikki Otero Lockwood

    Nikki Otero Lockwood is a public schools advocate and community activist running for Spokane School Board Director, Position 1.

  • Endorsed By: Fuse
  • Jenny Slagle is the Director of Community Services at Better Health Together, where she advocates for healthier communities and improved Medicaid access. She has served on the Spokane School District Diversity Advisory Board. A member of the Yakama tribe, Slagle states that she wants to be bold in her equity work by strengthening relationships with regional tribes and other communities of color. Slagle wants to see appropriate school and class sizes, increase the number of mental health professionals in schools, and institute social-emotional learning programs. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jenny Slagle

    Jenny Slagle is the Director of Community Services at Better Health Together, where she advocates for healthier communities and improved Medicaid access. She has served on the Spokane School District Diversity Advisory Board.

    Jenny Slagle is the Director of Community Services at Better Health Together, where she advocates for healthier communities and improved Medicaid access. She has served on the Spokane School District Diversity Advisory Board. A member of the Yakama tribe, Slagle states that she wants to be bold in her equity work by strengthening relationships with regional tribes and other communities of color. Slagle wants to see appropriate school and class sizes, increase the number of mental health professionals in schools, and institute social-emotional learning programs. 

    Jenny Slagle

    Jenny Slagle is the Director of Community Services at Better Health Together, where she advocates for healthier communities and improved Medicaid access. She has served on the Spokane School District Diversity Advisory Board.

  • Endorsed By: Fuse
  • Luc Jasmin III is the owner of a childcare center that serves low-income families and the president of the board of Washington Childcare Centers Association. As a Haitian-American who experienced poverty as a child, Jasmin is determined to reduce the disparity between students from different communities served by Spokane Public Schools. He seeks to foster partnerships with local agencies to provide on-site mental health, speech, and occupational therapy services to students. Jasmin also wants school staff to participate in implicit bias training, provide community connections to serve their highest need students, and prioritize early learning. 

    Also in this race is educator Kellilin "Kelli" MacFarlane, who works as a substitute teacher in Spokane and has taught since 2005. She is running to get teachers’ voices heard. Unfortunately, MacFarlane did not return an election questionnaire and does not have detailed platform information available as of early July.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Luc Jasmin III

    Luc Jasmin III is the owner of a childcare center that serves low-income families and the president of the board of Washington Childcare Centers Association.

    Luc Jasmin III is the owner of a childcare center that serves low-income families and the president of the board of Washington Childcare Centers Association. As a Haitian-American who experienced poverty as a child, Jasmin is determined to reduce the disparity between students from different communities served by Spokane Public Schools. He seeks to foster partnerships with local agencies to provide on-site mental health, speech, and occupational therapy services to students. Jasmin also wants school staff to participate in implicit bias training, provide community connections to serve their highest need students, and prioritize early learning. 

    Also in this race is educator Kellilin "Kelli" MacFarlane, who works as a substitute teacher in Spokane and has taught since 2005. She is running to get teachers’ voices heard. Unfortunately, MacFarlane did not return an election questionnaire and does not have detailed platform information available as of early July.

    Luc Jasmin III

    Luc Jasmin III is the owner of a childcare center that serves low-income families and the president of the board of Washington Childcare Centers Association.

  • Endorsed By: Fuse
  • Erin Georgen is running for Spokane School Board, Director Position 4. She is prioritizing the expansion of resources and interventions for struggling students, training staff in de-escalation techniques, and ensuring that students get more practical-skill and project-based education, including preparing kids to work in the clean energy economy. As someone who has worked at St. Luke’s Rehabilitation for many years, Georgen does not support arming campus resource officers because she doesn't believe it makes students or staff safer when dealing with behavioral issues. Georgen’s background as a physical therapy assistant working with high needs patients would also lend her experience in mental health and discipline issues in schools.

    Georgen is running against Kevin Morrison and William “Bill” Baxley. Bill Baxley is a former educator who states that he’s running because he has time and loves Spokane. He has little detailed campaign information available. Morrison has worked in Spokane Public Schools for sixteen years and served seven years in the superintendent’s cabinet. He is prioritizing working with the city’s legislative partners to find budget solutions and to advocate for additional funding for special education and youth mental crisis care. While he is progressive on some issues, in our volunteer interviews he was evasive on the issue of arming school resources officers and he is not as strong on racial equity as Georgen. 

    We believe Erin Georgen is the best choice in this race because of her thoughtful analysis of equity in Spokane Public Schools.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Erin Georgen

    Erin Georgen is running for Spokane School Board, Director Position 4.

    Erin Georgen is running for Spokane School Board, Director Position 4. She is prioritizing the expansion of resources and interventions for struggling students, training staff in de-escalation techniques, and ensuring that students get more practical-skill and project-based education, including preparing kids to work in the clean energy economy. As someone who has worked at St. Luke’s Rehabilitation for many years, Georgen does not support arming campus resource officers because she doesn't believe it makes students or staff safer when dealing with behavioral issues. Georgen’s background as a physical therapy assistant working with high needs patients would also lend her experience in mental health and discipline issues in schools.

    Georgen is running against Kevin Morrison and William “Bill” Baxley. Bill Baxley is a former educator who states that he’s running because he has time and loves Spokane. He has little detailed campaign information available. Morrison has worked in Spokane Public Schools for sixteen years and served seven years in the superintendent’s cabinet. He is prioritizing working with the city’s legislative partners to find budget solutions and to advocate for additional funding for special education and youth mental crisis care. While he is progressive on some issues, in our volunteer interviews he was evasive on the issue of arming school resources officers and he is not as strong on racial equity as Georgen. 

    We believe Erin Georgen is the best choice in this race because of her thoughtful analysis of equity in Spokane Public Schools.

    Erin Georgen

    Erin Georgen is running for Spokane School Board, Director Position 4.

  • Endorsed By: Fuse, Spokane County Democrats
  • Dr. Enrique Leon was chosen to join the school board by the Tacoma School Board of Directors after School Board President Catherine Ushka was elected to the city council. Along with his position on the board, Dr. Leon works at MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine and is a team physician for Lincoln and Stadium High schools.

    Leon notes that last year's teacher strike gave educators a well-deserved raise, but acknowledged rifts in the community between the district leaders and the unions that resulted.

    The state Legislature has enacted a cap on levy funding that has contributed to a budget deficit in Tacoma schools. This year the formula was amended, but schools still face consequences such as teacher layoffs. In light of further likely budget cuts in the district, Leon says he is looking at free and open evidence-based curriculum rather than buying a new curriculum. He will also focus on supporting an enhanced elementary reading curriculum, emphasizing kids' emotional and mental health, and creating community-school partnerships.

    Leon is running against Kristopher Kerns and John Marsden. Kristopher Kerns is the vice president of Point Defiance Elementary's PTA. He supported last September's teacher strike, saying that teachers deserve fair wages, but noted the burden on parents like himself. Kerns would modify hiring timelines and policies for teachers, aggressively recruit new educators, and states that he will ensure no additional layoffs in the district. A single father of two with one child in the district, John Marsden works for a hardware company. He advocated for a grant to help clean up the park at Whitman Elementary. He does not have detailed campaign information available as of mid-July.

    We lean towards Leon in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Dr. Enrique Leon

    Dr. Enrique Leon was chosen to join the school board by the Tacoma School Board of Directors after School Board President Catherine Ushka was elected to the city council. Along with his position on the board, Dr.

    Dr. Enrique Leon was chosen to join the school board by the Tacoma School Board of Directors after School Board President Catherine Ushka was elected to the city council. Along with his position on the board, Dr. Leon works at MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine and is a team physician for Lincoln and Stadium High schools.

    Leon notes that last year's teacher strike gave educators a well-deserved raise, but acknowledged rifts in the community between the district leaders and the unions that resulted.

    The state Legislature has enacted a cap on levy funding that has contributed to a budget deficit in Tacoma schools. This year the formula was amended, but schools still face consequences such as teacher layoffs. In light of further likely budget cuts in the district, Leon says he is looking at free and open evidence-based curriculum rather than buying a new curriculum. He will also focus on supporting an enhanced elementary reading curriculum, emphasizing kids' emotional and mental health, and creating community-school partnerships.

    Leon is running against Kristopher Kerns and John Marsden. Kristopher Kerns is the vice president of Point Defiance Elementary's PTA. He supported last September's teacher strike, saying that teachers deserve fair wages, but noted the burden on parents like himself. Kerns would modify hiring timelines and policies for teachers, aggressively recruit new educators, and states that he will ensure no additional layoffs in the district. A single father of two with one child in the district, John Marsden works for a hardware company. He advocated for a grant to help clean up the park at Whitman Elementary. He does not have detailed campaign information available as of mid-July.

    We lean towards Leon in this race.

    Dr. Enrique Leon

    Dr. Enrique Leon was chosen to join the school board by the Tacoma School Board of Directors after School Board President Catherine Ushka was elected to the city council. Along with his position on the board, Dr.

  • Caressa Milgrove is a hospitality auditor who is running to bring back more community events and meetings with the school board. As a parent advocate concerned that her son only had fifteen minutes to eat lunch, she worked with child nutritionists and state representatives to pass a bill through the state legislature that will help districts across the state create better lunchtime practices. Milgrove also seeks to improve the district's environmental practices, increase recess time, and expand project-based learning.

    Milgrove is running against Thomas Higdon, incumbent Dale Q. Rice, and Kyle Sproul. Higdon, a retired promoter and essayist who does not have experience with Vancouver schools, is seeking a "tradition-rich education" which emphasizes English so that schools can "dramatically reduce such illiteracy as has characterized so many contemporary graduates." Board Vice President Rice is an investment advisor representative who has served on the board since 1990. He is running to continue leveraging his financial background into fiscal responsibility and budget management. Sproul is a business professional who is running to close the achievement gap and to support dual language education in the district.

    Milgrove has been widely endorsed by the community and is the best choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Caressa Milgrove

    Caressa Milgrove is a hospitality auditor who is running to bring back more community events and meetings with the school board.

    Caressa Milgrove is a hospitality auditor who is running to bring back more community events and meetings with the school board. As a parent advocate concerned that her son only had fifteen minutes to eat lunch, she worked with child nutritionists and state representatives to pass a bill through the state legislature that will help districts across the state create better lunchtime practices. Milgrove also seeks to improve the district's environmental practices, increase recess time, and expand project-based learning.

    Milgrove is running against Thomas Higdon, incumbent Dale Q. Rice, and Kyle Sproul. Higdon, a retired promoter and essayist who does not have experience with Vancouver schools, is seeking a "tradition-rich education" which emphasizes English so that schools can "dramatically reduce such illiteracy as has characterized so many contemporary graduates." Board Vice President Rice is an investment advisor representative who has served on the board since 1990. He is running to continue leveraging his financial background into fiscal responsibility and budget management. Sproul is a business professional who is running to close the achievement gap and to support dual language education in the district.

    Milgrove has been widely endorsed by the community and is the best choice in this race.

    Caressa Milgrove

    Caressa Milgrove is a hospitality auditor who is running to bring back more community events and meetings with the school board.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925, Clark County Democrats
  • Luis recently graduated from Fort Vancouver High School Center for International Studies and will be attending Washington State University: Vancouver this fall. Luis is first-generation Latinx and is running because she understands the problems facing students, having just been a high school student herself. She was on the picket lines with teachers during the strike last year supporting stronger wages, smaller class sizes, and more resources for schools. Luis is very involved in her community, including hosting voter registration drives and serving as a High School Changemaker for elementary schoolers.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lindsey Luis

    Luis recently graduated from Fort Vancouver High School Center for International Studies and will be attending Washington State University: Vancouver this fall.

    Luis recently graduated from Fort Vancouver High School Center for International Studies and will be attending Washington State University: Vancouver this fall. Luis is first-generation Latinx and is running because she understands the problems facing students, having just been a high school student herself. She was on the picket lines with teachers during the strike last year supporting stronger wages, smaller class sizes, and more resources for schools. Luis is very involved in her community, including hosting voter registration drives and serving as a High School Changemaker for elementary schoolers.

    Lindsey Luis

    Luis recently graduated from Fort Vancouver High School Center for International Studies and will be attending Washington State University: Vancouver this fall.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925, Clark County Democrats
  • Messer has been a teacher in Evergreen Public Schools for 14 years and is very focused on metrics. She wants to update the district to meet the needs of modern students, collaborate with the community, and honor the hard work educators do. Regarding the teachers' strike last year, Messer believes administrators should have been more proactive in seeing changes coming and adapting to them.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lisa Messer

    Messer has been a teacher in Evergreen Public Schools for 14 years and is very focused on metrics. She wants to update the district to meet the needs of modern students, collaborate with the community, and honor the hard work educators do.

    Messer has been a teacher in Evergreen Public Schools for 14 years and is very focused on metrics. She wants to update the district to meet the needs of modern students, collaborate with the community, and honor the hard work educators do. Regarding the teachers' strike last year, Messer believes administrators should have been more proactive in seeing changes coming and adapting to them.

    Lisa Messer

    Messer has been a teacher in Evergreen Public Schools for 14 years and is very focused on metrics. She wants to update the district to meet the needs of modern students, collaborate with the community, and honor the hard work educators do.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925, Clark County Democrats

Other Candidates

Messer and Luis are facing teacher Kathy Decker and Columbia Credit Union financial advisor Robert Stewart. Decker is running to be a champion for every child and bring district parents easy access to decision-makers like administrators, board members, and department heads. Stewart is running a finance-centric campaign and wants to balance the needs of students and teachers with the current funding the district receives.

Vancouver Schools P4 others

Messer and Luis are facing teacher Kathy Decker and Columbia Credit Union financial advisor Robert Stewart. Decker is running to be a champion for every child and bring district parents easy access to decision-makers like administrators, board members, and department heads.